A Hidden Gem - Plaza Santo Domingo
Tucked quietly in the southern part of Quito’s Old Town, is the seemingly inconspicuous Santo Domingo Plaza. The plaza, which is dominated by the Santo Domingo Cathedral at the southeastern edge, is often missed by many travelers and tourists, which is a shame, because it’s one of the hidden gems of Old Town Quito.
What makes this plaza so unique? Compared to the many other plazas in Quito, this plaza features the best combination of history, art and culture. At the heart of its history and art is the Santo Domingo Cathedral. Although this cathedral does not boast the gold interior of Iglesia Compania de Jesus or the panoramic views of the Basilica, it makes up through its historical significance in the creation of the Escuela Quitena (Quito Art School). This cathedral, which was built by the Dominicans in 1580, provides a gateway in admiring the artistic works of many famous artists of Quito. One of the most famous works being the amazing sculpture of the Virgen del Rosario that was imported from Seville during the 1880’s, when an Italian priest began to modernize the church with neo-classical baroque architecture. However, many of the early woodcarvings, murals and paintings from the 1580’s remain today with numerous murals painted by the founder of the Escuela Quitena, Pedro Bedon. The cathedral is also home to a small Dominican museum, which contains other remarkable works from Caspicara, Bernardo Legarda, and Padre Carlos, whom are all famous Quiteno artists that contributed to revolutionizing the artistic expression of Ecuador.
Outside the church in the main plaza, stands the symbolic statue of the hero, Jose de Sucre, pointing towards the Volcano Pichincha, where he led the winning battle for Ecuador’s independence in 1822. Surrounding the statue, travelers and tourists can be treated to lively entertainment, especially during the weekends when the bright lights of the domes from the cathedral shine down on culturally rich performances. These performances are brought to life by jugglers, acrobats, storytellers, and/or magicians that tell the story of Quito's history through their art. And for art aficionados, this plaza, during special seasons like December, is a great place to bargain with local artists on some of their latest creations.
If enjoying vibrant entertainment and amazing art is on your list of “to do's”, then make sure this hidden gem is not missed when you visit Ecuador.
A few steps from this hidden treasure is Los Andes Ecuador, a 17th century Spanish colonial home, that offers guests private apartment style suites and rooms that embraces the art, history and culture of Quito. If the beautiful capital city of Quito, is a stop on your bucket list let us be your preferred home away from home when staying in Ecuador.
"What a great surprise! We didn't know what to expect when our car pulled up. It was such a sight for some tired eyes. We wish we could've stayed longer. Our host was great, very kind and helpful. Thank you so much for your great hospitality!"
---Alexi (USA)
