The Historic Centre of Quito was built hundreds of years ago and is one of the best-preserved colonial old towns in all of Latin America. Walking through its streets is like stepping back in time — the buildings are painted in warm colours of cream, yellow and terracotta, with ornate wooden balconies and carved stone doorways.
The most famous church in Quito is La Compañía de Jesús, whose interior is covered almost entirely in gold leaf. It is so extraordinarily decorated that people sometimes call it the 'Sistine Chapel of the Americas'. Sunlight reflecting off all that gold creates a warm, glowing light inside the church.
In the main square — the Plaza Grande — people gather to chat, buy snacks and watch the world go by. Vendors sell fresh juices, roasted nuts and snacks. Street performers and musicians sometimes entertain the crowds. The plaza is also home to the Presidential Palace, the city's cathedral and colourful flower sellers.
Even though Quito is on the Equator, its altitude means the weather is always pleasantly mild — warm during the day and cool at night. Locals call it 'the city of eternal spring'. Flowers bloom in the city all year round, giving it a fresh and colourful feel regardless of the month.