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Iglesia de la Compania Review

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Iglesia de la Compañía

Address: García Moreno at Sucre, Centro, Quito
Phone: 02/258-4175
www.ficj.org.ec

Category: Religious Sites
Location: Old City

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Fodor's Review:

The "company" referred to here is the Society of Jesus, the powerful Jesuit order that profoundly influenced religious life in colonial South America. In many cities, Quito included, the local Jesuit church outshone the local cathedral. La Compañía is the most impressive of the capital's 86 churches, with 10 side altars and a high altar plated with gold. An ambitious 25-year restoration project was completed in 2006, and if you see nothing else in Quito, don't miss this. The high central nave and the delicacy of its Arab-inspired plasterwork give the church a sumptuous, almost sinfully rich appearance. Indeed, almost half a ton of gold was poured into the ceilings, walls, pulpits, and altars during its 160 years of construction (1605-1765). At the center of the main altar is a statue of the Quiteña saint Mariana de Jesús; her remains are entombed at the foot of the altar. Guided tours in Spanish or English are included in your admission price.

Cost: $2, free 1st Sun. of month
Open: Weekdays 9:30-5:30, Sat. 9:30-4:30, Sun. 1:30-4:30

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