Tourist Attractions in Quito, Ecuador

 

Virgen del Panecillo

This hill is located to one side of the historical center. It is known as El Panecillo due to the resemblance that the Spaniards noticed between the hill and a type of small bread (panecillo).

The Spanish conquistadors built a small fortress from 1812 to 1815, as well as a water tank at the top in order to provide their soldiers with the precious liquid. The focal point of the peak is the Virgen de Legarda, an impressive sculpture that can be seen from any point of the city. It is better known as La Virgen del Panecillo.