Museo Casa de Sucre, Quito Travel Guide

The Museo Casa de Sucre, also known as the Defense Museum “Casa de Sucre”, is a cultural institution dedicated to the memory of Antonio José de Sucre, a Venezuelan marshal and key figure in Latin American independence, and his wife, Mariana Carcelén, the Marquise of Solanda. Sucre was a close friend and lieutenant of Simón Bolívar and played a crucial role in the Battle of Pichincha in 1822, which led to Quito's liberation.The museum is housed in a historic mansion that dates back to the early 1700s. The building once belonged to Sebastián Pérez de Ubilus and later to the Carcelén family. Antonio José de Sucre acquired part of the mansion after marrying Mariana Carcelén in 1828. The couple resided there for a short period before Sucre's untimely assassination in Colombia in 1830.Visitors can explore the beautifully restored rooms, which feature original furniture, personal belongings, and artifacts that offer a glimpse into the daily life of the Sucre family and the social, political, and economic context of Quito during the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum also displays important paintings of the time, depicting the Carcelén family, Mariscal de Ayacucho, and other heroes of Ecuadorian independence.The house itself is a historical and architectural treasure, featuring an Andalusian-style central patio that adds to its charm. The first floor was originally used for garages, warehouses, and employee rooms, while the second floor was reserved for the family's living quarters.Displays include the household shopping list for Simón Bolívar's visit in June 1822, including 50 rabbits, 16 cow tongues and eight very fat pigs.