Templo de la Patria - a white building with steps leading up to it
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Templo de la Patria

4.6
·1k reviews·Quito, Ecuador

Monument to Ecuador's independence, offering breathtaking Quito views from its highland perch.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime, via taxi

Safest access & best views

CrowdLow
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Templo de la Patria - a white building with steps leading up to it

Templo de la Patria

Best Time

Daytime, via taxi

Safest access & best views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Monument to Ecuador's independence, offering breathtaking Quito views from its highland perch.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"The rooftop provides an amazing scenic view of Quito along with an enormous mural to admire."

Vertical photo
TIP

Taxi is Your Best Friend

Take a taxi directly to the entrance for safety, especially if exploring the surrounding neighborhood. :taxi:

Rooftop is a Must-See

Don't miss the incredible panoramic views of Quito from the rooftop, it's highly recommended! :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Quito Views

Panoramic Quito Views

Rooftop

Soak in breathtaking 360-degree views of Quito from the rooftop, a truly unforgettable experience.

Reddit
Independence History Museum

Independence History Museum

Interior museum

Explore exhibits and murals detailing Ecuador's fight for independence from Spain.

Instagram
Enormous Rooftop Mural

Enormous Rooftop Mural

Rooftop

Admire a massive, impressive mural on the rooftop, adding artistic flair to the stunning vistas.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating to the Temple

The Templo de la Patria is located in the highlands of Quito's San Roque neighborhood. While the views are spectacular, some travelers note the surrounding areas can feel shady. It's highly recommended to take a taxi directly to the entrance for safety and convenience. Reddit

Access and Rooftop Views

While the museum inside Templo de la Patria details Ecuador's independence, it's often closed to the general public without prior arrangement. The real draw for many is the rooftop, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Quito and an impressive mural. Reddit

Best Times

When
Daytime, via taxi
Why
Safest access & best views
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Spectacular golden hour
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

¿Como llegar al Mirador de Chalma, desde el Santuario? Aquí te decimos como hacerle #chalma #Malinalco #señordechalma🙏🏽 #Mirador#mexico🇲🇽
@el.mirador.chalma
28.5K likes • 1.1M views

Taxi is Your Best Friend

Take a taxi directly to the entrance for safety, especially if exploring the surrounding neighborhood. Reddit :taxi:

Rooftop is a Must-See

Don't miss the incredible panoramic views of Quito from the rooftop, it's highly recommended! Reddit :camerawithflash:

El Templo de la Patria es una imponente estructura de hormigón en la cual se construyeron diferentes salas con objetos de la época, monumentos, maquetas interactivas y murales pictóricos que narran eventos históricos, este museo se encuentra se encuentra a 3.200 metros sobre el nivel del mar, en las laderas del volcán Pichincha. Si quieres conocer un poco de la historia de Ecuador te recomiendo q...
dancolor
543 likes • 1.5K views
🎥✨ Una aventura que nos conectó con la historia Así vivimos la salida pedagógica al Templo de la Patria junto a nuestros estudiantes de 3.º a 5.º de Básica. Exploramos, aprendimos y disfrutamos de un recorrido lleno de conocimiento, identidad y valores. 💛📚 Gracias a nuestras profes por su compromiso y entrega en cada paso, y a las familias por confiar siempre en este hermoso camino educativo. 👩‍...
cedipsquito
8 likes • 587 views

Check Museum Access

The interior museum may be closed to the public; confirm access beforehand if history is your main goal. Reddit :information_desk:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, especially on the rooftop, so comfortable footwear is key. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

The Altare della Patria memorial was one of my favourite places to visit in Rome, Italy

Tips

from all over the internet

Taxi is Your Best Friend

Take a taxi directly to the entrance for safety, especially if exploring the surrounding neighborhood. Reddit :taxi:

Rooftop is a Must-See

Don't miss the incredible panoramic views of Quito from the rooftop, it's highly recommended! Reddit :camerawithflash:

Check Museum Access

The interior museum may be closed to the public; confirm access beforehand if history is your main goal. Reddit :information_desk:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, especially on the rooftop, so comfortable footwear is key. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the spectacular panoramic views of Quito from the rooftop of the Templo de la Patria, often calling it a must-see. While the interior museum's accessibility can be an issue, the rooftop experience, including a large mural, is consistently praised. Some caution is advised regarding the surrounding neighborhood, with taxis recommended for safe access.

"This is a beautiful museum covering the history of Ecuador's independence from Spain. It is a two floor museum with access to the rooftop (highly recommended).

The rooftop provides an amazing scenic view of Quito along with an enormous mural to admire."

Alex G

""Temple of Liberty" place located in the highlands of the traditional neighborhood of downtown Quito "San Roque". The libertarian deed in the battle of Pichincha is honored on the site."

Diego Cuenca

"The museum is closed to the general public eventhough it is not indicated anywhere. To go there you need to pass through very shady areas so use a taxi and be street smart."

Milos

What People Like

Amazing rooftop views
Impressive city panorama
Large rooftop mural

What People Dislike

Museum often closed
Shady surrounding area

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Templo de la Patria is located in the San Roque neighborhood. While public transport might be an option, many visitors and locals strongly advise taking a taxi directly to the site for safety reasons, as the surrounding areas can be perceived as shady. Reddit

Some reviews mention the neighborhood can feel shady, but traveling by taxi directly to the entrance is generally considered safe. Exercise street smarts and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

While technically possible, walking might not be the safest option due to the neighborhood's reputation. It's best to use a taxi for direct access. Reddit

The most recommended method is to take a taxi from downtown Quito directly to the Templo de la Patria. This ensures a safe and direct journey. Reddit

Drivers should navigate towards the San Roque neighborhood in Quito. It's advisable to use GPS and inform your taxi driver of your destination clearly. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information on ticket requirements for the interior museum can be inconsistent, as it's often closed to the general public. However, access to the rooftop for the views is usually available, though it's wise to confirm on-site. Reddit

The interior museum's hours are not consistently advertised and it may be closed to the public. The rooftop is generally accessible during daylight hours, but it's best to check locally. Reddit

While specific fees can vary, the rooftop access is often included or has a minimal charge. The primary focus for many visitors is the view, which is considered well worth it. Reddit

Many reviews indicate the museum is closed to the general public and may require prior arrangements or special access. Focus on the rooftop for guaranteed access to the views. Reddit

Official opening hours are not always clearly posted online. It's recommended to inquire locally or check recent visitor posts for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The rooftop offers unparalleled photo opportunities with panoramic views of Quito. The large mural on the rooftop is also a fantastic subject for photography. InstagramReddit

Photography rules inside the museum can vary, and since access is often restricted, it's best to inquire on-site if you gain entry. The exterior architecture also presents interesting photographic angles. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical sites. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. TikTok

Sunset is highly recommended for photography, as the golden hour light bathes Quito in a beautiful glow. Daytime offers clear, sharp views of the city. Reddit

Beyond general rules about not disturbing others, there are no widely reported specific photo restrictions, especially for the rooftop views. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the spectacular rooftop view of Quito and its surrounding mountains. There's also a large mural and an interior museum detailing Ecuador's independence history, though museum access can be limited. InstagramReddit

Most visitors spend 1-2 hours, primarily enjoying the rooftop views and taking photos. If the museum is accessible and of interest, you might extend your visit. Reddit

There are no significant dining facilities mentioned within the Templo de la Patria itself. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit. Reddit

The Templo de la Patria, like Rome's Altare della Patria, is sometimes colloquially referred to as 'The Wedding Cake' due to its imposing and somewhat ornate architecture. Reddit

The site honors the libertarian deed in the Battle of Pichincha, a pivotal moment in Ecuador's independence from Spain. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families, the Templo de la Patria offers a unique opportunity to combine stunning views with a touch of history. The rooftop is a definite highlight, providing a vast space for kids to explore (with supervision, of course!) while taking in the impressive cityscape. The sheer scale of the view can be captivating for younger visitors. Instagram

While the interior museum might be less engaging for very young children due to its historical focus and potential closure, the enormous mural on the rooftop can spark their imagination. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there will be walking involved. Prioritizing a taxi for transport will make the journey smoother and safer for the whole family. InstagramReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Templo de la Patria is a dream for photographers, especially those who love cityscapes and panoramic views. The rooftop offers unobstructed vistas of Quito, perfect for capturing the urban sprawl against the backdrop of the Andes mountains. Sunset is particularly magical, bathing the city in a warm, golden light that creates dramatic and memorable shots. Reddit

Don't overlook the impressive mural on the rooftop; its scale and detail provide a fantastic subject for both wide shots and close-ups. While interior museum photography might be restricted, the architectural elements of the Templo de la Patria itself can also offer interesting photographic opportunities. Remember to bring your wide-angle lenses to capture the full scope of the views! Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by Ecuador's journey to independence, the Templo de la Patria is a site of significant historical importance. It commemorates the Battle of Pichincha, a pivotal moment in the nation's liberation. The museum, when accessible, offers a deeper dive into this history through artifacts, interactive displays, and murals. InstagramReddit

Even if the museum access is limited, the very existence of the Templo de la Patria serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom. Consider researching the Battle of Pichincha beforehand to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the site's historical context. The location itself, high in the highlands, adds to the sense of historical significance. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Templo de la Patria: A Monument to Independence

The Templo de la Patria, often referred to as the "Temple of Liberty," stands as a significant monument in Quito, Ecuador. Its primary purpose is to commemorate the Battle of Pichincha, a crucial event that secured Ecuador's independence from Spanish rule. The structure itself is an imposing concrete edifice, designed to house exhibits and tell the story of this pivotal historical moment. InstagramReddit

Inside, visitors can find various rooms dedicated to historical artifacts, interactive displays, and pictorial murals that narrate the events leading up to and during the independence struggle. However, it's important to note that access to the interior museum can be inconsistent, with many visitors reporting it being closed to the general public. Reddit

Despite potential limitations with the museum, the Templo de la Patria offers an unparalleled experience through its rooftop. This elevated vantage point provides breathtaking panoramic views of Quito, allowing visitors to appreciate the city's sprawling landscape and its integration with the surrounding highlands. The rooftop also features a large, impressive mural, adding an artistic dimension to the historical and scenic elements of the site. InstagramReddit

Navigating Quito's Highlands: Safety and Access

Visiting the Templo de la Patria involves navigating the highlands of Quito, specifically the traditional neighborhood of San Roque. While the destination offers spectacular views, some travelers have noted that the surrounding areas can feel a bit shady or less secure. This perception is important for visitors to be aware of, especially when planning their journey. Reddit

To ensure a safe and convenient visit, the overwhelming recommendation from both locals and travelers is to use a taxi. Taking a taxi directly to the entrance of the Templo de la Patria bypasses any concerns about navigating potentially less secure streets and ensures you arrive directly at your destination. This advice is frequently shared on travel forums and social media, highlighting its importance for a positive experience. TikTokReddit

When arriving by taxi, it's always wise to be street smart and aware of your surroundings. While the Templo de la Patria itself is a place of historical significance and offers stunning vistas, the journey to and from the site requires a degree of caution. By prioritizing safe transportation, visitors can fully enjoy the historical insights and the magnificent views that the Templo de la Patria has to offer. Reddit

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