Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this church dazzles with an interior covered in an estimated 54 kilos of gold.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this church dazzles with an interior covered in an estimated 54 kilos of gold.
"Prepare to be amazed by the 'church of gold,' a Baroque masterpiece that truly shines."
✨ Admire the Gold
Don't miss the breathtaking interior, estimated to contain 54 kilos of gold!
🚶♀️ Explore the Plaza
The historic plaza outside is beautiful, with shops and street vendors to browse.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Church of Gold'
Interior
Marvel at walls, ceilings, and columns adorned with an estimated 54 kilos of pure gold.
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Baroque Masterpiece
Exterior and Interior
Experience one of South America's most important Baroque works, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Historical Plaza
Exterior
Admire the beautiful historic plaza surrounding the church, with charming shops and vendors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Golden Interior & Crowds
+1 While stunning, it can get busy. Visiting during off-peak hours, like mid-week afternoons, can offer a more serene experience. Historical Significance & Entry
+1 Admission fees apply, with different rates for adults and students/children. Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate its rich history and intricate details, though some find them rushed. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Admire the Gold
Don't miss the breathtaking interior, estimated to contain 54 kilos of gold!
🚶♀️ Explore the Plaza
The historic plaza outside is beautiful, with shops and street vendors to browse.
💰 Check Admission Fees
Adults pay $5, students/children $2.50.
🗣️ Guided Tour Option
Consider a tour to learn about the history, though some find them quick.
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Admire the Gold
Don't miss the breathtaking interior, estimated to contain 54 kilos of gold!
🚶♀️ Explore the Plaza
The historic plaza outside is beautiful, with shops and street vendors to browse.
💰 Check Admission Fees
Adults pay $5, students/children $2.50.
🗣️ Guided Tour Option
Consider a tour to learn about the history, though some find them quick.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús for its absolutely stunning and awe-inspiring golden interior, often described as a 'church of gold.' The intricate Baroque architecture and the historical significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site are also major highlights. Some reviewers found guided tours to be a bit rushed, and like many historic city centers, parking can be a challenge.
"Amazing church!! We went around lunch time on Friday and there weren't a lot of people there. I would definitely check it out and there is a museum right next door"
Savannah Gunnoe
"Here is what one of the world heritage in Cordoba. It’s a quiet and sacred place.
We can see Maria Magdalena between the entrance and the chapel."
Papipupenta
"The areal is really impressing, the church and the museum. The guided tour was too fast, but the old buildings are really beautiful!"
Jonas Linder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in the Historic Center of Quito, on Calle de Las Cruces.
Parking in Quito's historic center can be challenging due to narrow streets and pedestrian zones. It's often best to use taxis or ride-sharing services, or park in a designated lot and walk.
Many visitors find walking to be the best way to explore the Historic Center, allowing you to discover hidden gems.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically $5 for adults and $2.50 for students and children.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the church is open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check the most current hours before your visit, especially on holidays.
Yes, there is a museum located right next door to the church that is also worth visiting. The combined ticket might offer a better value.
For most visits, booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, especially if you visit during off-peak hours. However, for special events or peak tourist seasons, it might be a good idea.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The most striking feature is its interior, lavishly decorated with an estimated 54 kilos of gold, earning it the nickname 'church of gold'.
As it is a place of worship, modest dress is recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
The main areas of the church are generally accessible, but some older historical sites may have limitations. It's best to inquire directly about specific accessibility needs.
It's considered one of the most important Baroque churches in South America and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978.
One Instagram Reel mentions a tragic fire in 1863 where over 2,000 women lost their lives, inspiring a novel.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions or if a photography fee applies.
The opulent golden interior offers countless stunning photo opportunities.
Drone photography is generally not permitted within historic city centers or near religious sites due to regulations and respect for the location.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 While the historical details might be complex, the visual spectacle can hold their attention. The surrounding plaza offers a bit more space to move around and observe street vendors. 💰 Budget Travelers
Many of Quito's historic sites are best explored on foot, saving on transportation costs. Pack snacks and water to avoid purchasing them at tourist prices. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Capture the intricate details of the Baroque carvings and the dazzling gold leaf. The exterior architecture and the surrounding historic plaza also offer excellent photographic opportunities. Remember to be mindful of lighting conditions and any photography restrictions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Golden Splendor: Inside the Church
+1 This incredible display of Baroque artistry is a testament to the wealth and devotion of the era. Every inch of the space is covered in intricate carvings, gilded details, and religious iconography, creating an overwhelmingly opulent and sacred atmosphere. Visitors are often left speechless by the sheer brilliance and craftsmanship. The play of light on the gold surfaces creates a warm, ethereal glow, making it a truly unforgettable visual experience.
While photography is usually permitted, it's important to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site and any ongoing services. Beyond the gold, the church also showcases elements of Mudéjar style, reflecting historical influences.
The detailed artwork and architectural elements tell stories of faith, history, and the fusion of cultures that shaped this magnificent structure. A UNESCO World Heritage Gem
+1 Its construction, which spanned an impressive 160 years, involved a diverse workforce, including Europeans, indigenous peoples, and enslaved Africans, each leaving their mark on the final masterpiece. +1The church's architectural significance lies in its masterful blend of styles, particularly its prominent Baroque elements, alongside influences from Mudéjar art.
This fusion of artistic traditions contributes to its unique character and historical importance. The surrounding plaza is also a vital part of the historic ensemble, contributing to the overall ambiance of the UNESCO site. Visiting this church offers a profound connection to history, art, and culture. It's a place where centuries of craftsmanship and devotion are preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage of Quito and Ecuador.
Historical Echoes and Tragic Tales
+1 This incident resulted in the loss of over 2,000 lives, predominantly women, leaving a somber mark on the city's collective memory. This event has even inspired literary works, such as a novel based on the tragedy. While this particular event might be more associated with the church's historical context rather than its current function, it highlights the layers of history embedded within the site.
It serves as a reminder that historical landmarks often carry stories of both grandeur and sorrow. It's worth noting that one Reddit post mentions a different historical context for a 'Church of Jesus' in Cordoba, Argentina, which is the oldest standing temple there and involved diverse labor in its construction.
This highlights the importance of specifying the location when discussing historical churches named 'Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús'. The Quito location is renowned for its gold interior. 
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit