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Arco de Santo Domingo: A Gateway to Quito's History

Discover Quito's colonial history at the Arco de Santo Domingo, a 17th-century archway connecting the city center to the historic La Loma Grande neighborhood.

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The Arco de Santo Domingo, constructed in the 17th century, stands as a historical landmark in Quito, Ecuador. Serving as a gateway to the Santo Domingo Church and Monastery, it showcases colonial architecture with exquisite carvings and vibrant colors. The arch connects the city center to the neighborhood of La Loma Grande.

A brief summary to Arco De Santo Domingo

  • QFGP+7WQ, Quito, 170401, EC

Local tips

  • Visit the Santo Domingo Church and Monastery to appreciate its Baroque design and serene gardens.
  • Explore the Plaza de Santo Domingo, where you'll find a monument to Antonio José de Sucre and colonial buildings.
  • Take time to appreciate the views of the surrounding architecture and picturesque streets in Quito's historic district.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Plaza Grande, walk southwest on Calle García Moreno towards Calle Chile. Continue straight for about 10 minutes until you reach the intersection with Calle Sucre. Turn left onto Calle Sucre and walk for another 5 minutes until you see the Arco De Santo Domingo on your right. It is a prominent archway and a well-known landmark.

  • Public Transport

    If you are near the Trolebús station at Parque El Ejido, board the Trolebús heading south towards La Marín. Ride for approximately 15 minutes and get off at the Santo Domingo stop. From there, it is a short 5-minute walk to the Arco De Santo Domingo. Head east along Calle Sucre and the arch will be visible ahead. The cost of a ride on the Trolebús is $0.25.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Quito. A short taxi trip to Arco de Santo Domingo from a nearby location, such as La Mariscal, will typically cost between $2 and $5. Ensure the driver uses the taximeter, or negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Arco De Santo Domingo

The Arco de Santo Domingo is a captivating historical landmark located in Quito, Ecuador, embodying the essence of colonial architecture. Constructed in the 17th century, the arch originally served as a gateway to the nearby Santo Domingo Church and Monastery. The Santo Domingo Church and Monastery is renowned for its beautiful Baroque design and serene gardens. The arch is adorned with exquisite carvings and vibrant colors that tell stories of the past, making it a perfect subject for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Visitors often marvel at the intricate details that showcase the skilled craftsmanship of the era. The arch also serves as a fantastic meeting point before exploring further. The Arco de Santo Domingo is more than just a landmark; it is a symbol of the city's rich heritage and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ecuador. The arch connects the city center to the neighborhood of La Loma Grande. In 1732, the Dominican community proposed building a chapel next to the Church of Santo Domingo dedicated to the Virgin of the Rosary. This required interrupting what is now Calle Rocafuerte, which was part of an ancestral road. Instead of closing the street, the chapel was built on a stone arch, which became the entrance to the Loma Grande neighborhood. Today, the chapel is known as Capilla de la Virgen del Rosario.

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