San Francisco Square, Quito Travel Guide

Plaza de San Francisco, a sprawling cobbled square in the heart of Quito's Old Town, is a captivating landmark with a history stretching back centuries. Before the arrival of the Incas, nomadic tribes of the Quitu people bartered goods at a marketplace called Tianguez on this very site. Later, the Inca warrior Pachacuti conquered the Quitu in 1463, transforming the area into the epicenter of the Kingdom of Quito, complete with an Inca temple.In 1533, as the Spanish conquistadors advanced, loyalists of Inca Emperor Atahualpa razed his palace and military structures surrounding the plaza to prevent the Spanish from seizing them. The Spanish, after their victory, renamed the city San Francisco de Quito and constructed the San Francisco Church and monastery overlooking the square. Legend says that the colonists planted Quito's first wheat field here. Completed around 1550, the square became the city's main marketplace, a vital point for trade between the coast, the Andes, and the Amazon.Today, San Francisco Square remains a vibrant hub, attracting locals and tourists alike. Street performers, vendors, and cafes line the square, creating a lively atmosphere. Visitors can admire the square's colonial architecture, especially the stunning San Francisco Church with its Baroque facade. The square is slightly sloped because it was built on the site of an ancient Inca temple. The square is a gathering place for cultural events and festivals. Don't miss the chance to try local delicacies or purchase handcrafted souvenirs at the nearby artisan market.