Things to see in Quito

Quito lies in close proximity to the equator and to celebrate this fact there is a monument standing on the line just outside the city. Known as the ‘middle of the world’, the giant Mitad del Mundo was actually built in the wrong place, but is still an entertaining spot which houses astronomy and science exhibitions. Visitors will also find the quirky Intiñan Solar Museum, which is dedicated to ancient beliefs and astronomical knowledge of indigenous people and lies on the actual equator. Most tourists here try to balance an egg test on a nail as gravitational pulls are different on the equator. There is also a chance to prove (or disprove) the fable that water drains clockwise and anticlockwise on either side of the equator.

Painted brilliant white, the cathedral of Quito is surprisingly minimalistic on the outside and rather overshadowed by the neo-Gothic basilica nearby. On the inside, however, it’s suitably grand, with plenty of impressive artworks from the Quito School which include such novel cultural fusions as an image of the Three Kings atop llamas in a depiction of the Nativity. Sculptures from the 18th-century, like The Holy Shroud by Manuel Chili Caspicara, are amongst the artistic highlights. The remains of the great liberator Antonio José de Sucre are also buried here in a tomb carved out of volcanic rock.

Although it was built by the Jesuits in the 17th century, this church's most striking feature is the intricately carved 18th-century facade. It still remains a powerful symbol of Jesuit power in Latin America. A vast amount of gold was used to lavish decoration on its breathtaking interior, which also features numerous beautiful statues and a gleaming golden high altar. There are another 10 impressive side altars to bask in, as well as a sculpture of Quiteña saint Mariana de Jesús to admire.

Formerly known as La Plaza de la Independencia, the city's main square is dominated by the cathedral, built in 1562. The cathedral's most attractive part, however, is the 17th-century El Sagrario chapel. On the western side, and elevated above the square, stands the Palacio de Gobierno that has seen quite a few coups and political assassinations in its history as the seat of the national government. The Archbishop's Palace, opposite the cathedral, has been converted into a tourist centre with galleries, shops and a pleasant café.