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Calle La Ronda: Quito's Historic Heart

Experience Quito's rich history and culture on Calle La Ronda, a vibrant street filled with artisan shops, cafes, and colorful colonial architecture.

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Calle La Ronda is a charming, cobblestone street in Quito's historic center, lined with colorful colonial buildings, artisan shops, cafes, and galleries. It offers a glimpse into the city's culture and Spanish-era heritage, with a history dating back to the 1400s.

A brief summary to Calle La Ronda

  • QFGP+87W, Venezuela, Quito, Centro Histórico, 170130, EC

Local tips

  • Visit in the evening to experience the lively atmosphere with street music and local performances.
  • Try traditional Ecuadorian food and drinks at one of the street-side cafes.
  • Explore the artisan shops for unique, handcrafted souvenirs.
  • Look for informational signs on buildings to learn about the street's history and notable residents.
  • Check for local events or festivals happening during your visit for a richer cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Plaza Grande, walk south on Calle Garcia Moreno for about four blocks until you reach Juan de Dios Morales (Calle La Ronda). Turn left. The street is known for its colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Ecovía bus towards La Ofelia and get off at the 'Plaza de San Francisco' stop. Walk east along Calle Sucre, then turn right onto Calle Venezuela. Continue until you find Calle La Ronda. The local bus fare is approximately $0.25.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Quito. Simply tell the driver you want to go to Calle La Ronda in the Old Town. A short taxi ride from the city center will typically cost between $2 and $5.

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Discover more about Calle La Ronda

Calle La Ronda, also known as Calle Juan de Dios Morales, is a picturesque cobblestone street located in the heart of Quito's Historic Center. This area was the first city to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. The street's history stretches back to the 1400s, starting as an Incan trail. During the Spanish colonial era, the street was remodeled and became a popular residential area for wealthier citizens. By the early 1900s, it transformed into a bohemian hub for artists, poets, and musicians. Today, Calle La Ronda is known for its colorful Spanish-built houses with wrought-iron balconies and attractive patio courtyards. The street is home to artisan workshops where you can observe chocolatiers, milliners, silversmiths, and musical instrument makers at work. Visitors can shop for handcrafted toys, Panama hats, indigenous art, and textiles. The street also features cafes and restaurants serving traditional Ecuadorian delicacies such as quesadillas and canelazo, a warm spiced fruit drink with rum. In the evenings, Calle La Ronda comes alive with lights and live music, offering a vibrant nightlife experience. The street has undergone restoration to preserve its historical charm, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Informational signs along the street tell the stories of the people and houses that have shaped Ecuadorian history.

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