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593iant
This place is beautiful and the architecture is like no other but.........It is extremely dangerous. There are steps/ladders that you have to climb to get to the look out spot that are not safe at all. If you are afraid of heights then you probably wont be able to make it to the top.
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lizwood71
The basilica is a must see while in Quito. The exterior is interesting with local animals as gargoyles! The Stainglass windows inside are beautiful! It was fun to go through the rafters incline three ladders to get to the belltower and have a great view of the city
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Quiddity42
One of the many places that wouldn't be allowed to operate in the US ... not in the same way, anyway. The cathedral is beautiful, but the fun part is the pathway over the nave and climbing up the spires, and also the climb up to the belfry for fantastic views of Quito.
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14guyb
Definitely worth a visit, amazing views of all of Quito from the very top although probably not for you if you're afraid of heights!
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danielef524
Given the quality of the other churches in Quito I found this slightly disappointing and hoped for more after the walk up the hill. Yes it is big but a little underwhelming. The highlight is the walk up into the spire but the ladders are really quite steep and not for the faint hearted. Don't even bother if you are afraid of heights
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BluePointer
This is the largest neo-Gothic basilica in the Americas, and is found in the historic centre of Quito. It is not as old as you may think, less than 150 years old, and work on it is still in progress. The myth says that when the work is finished, so is the world, so construction may not proceed as fast as you may think! On the outside, this church will remind you of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Besides the two clock towers, it is the animal sculptures that are most notable. You will find iguanas, dolphins, tortoises and such... not really well done from my point of view, and seemingly out of place, but it is definitely unique and in keeping with how local culture and religion have a happy marriage.On the inside, you will almost break your neck looking up at the huge expanse of columns, arches, and stained glass windows. There are innumerable chapels, each with unique design and artifacts. A crypt beneath the church hold relics of former presidents, but I don't know if that is accessible to the general public. On the other hand, I did not know that our entry fee would have given us access to climbing the towers... that would have been fun! As it was, we did not have time as part of this tour. We visited the church twice, the second time choosing to go to the front façade which gave us a perfect view of the heart and cross windows that frame the Virgin angel on the Quito hill (from the inside). The courtyard is massive and well maintained. This Basilica is a centrepiece of Quito. You can view it from miles away, its two towers standing as outstretched hands to the city. As well, we were able to view the church from high above the hill, at a place called Itchimbia. Impressive! Definitely one of my favourites, and I've seen a bunch!
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38lizw
I went twice, you must climb up to the top of the towers if you are able. There is a cute cafe on one side with good coffee and treats. The top is scary and seems unsafe according to US standards. Still very fun and adventurous like you are in an Indiana Jones movie!
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Joy_al_mundo
If youre taking a day to wander around the Old Town in Quito, you have to climb up the to the top of the bell towers of the basilica for the view! Somewhat nerve-wracking set of steps and ladders, but well worth the experience! Highly recommend.
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Radmrjg
The basilica is very nice. It is not very old but it is nicely finished. the former President that was assassinated is entombed inside one of the side panels. I do not know when his body was moved here. If you are adventurous you can climb to the top for a great view of the area.
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it_is_PASSiON
I enjoyed climbing on top of the towers a lot. Adventurous and spectacular views of thr city! Highly recommend to go there. Must do when in Quito!