Pasaje Tobar: A Glimpse into Quito's Belle Époque

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Step back in time at Pasaje Tobar, a beautifully preserved shopping arcade in Quito's historic center, showcasing neoclassical architecture and local culture.

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Pasaje Tobar

Pasaje Tobar, a historic shopping arcade in Quito's Old Town, offers a journey back to the 1920s with its neoclassical architecture and Parisian-style design. This pedestrian passage, adorned with a glass and iron roof, provides a unique blend of commerce and culture.

A brief summary to Pasaje Tobar

QFHQ+433, Quito, Centro Histórico, 170401, EC

Local tips

Explore the unique shops within the passage for local crafts and souvenirs.
Take your time to admire the architectural details, especially the iron and glass roof.
Visit during the day to fully appreciate the natural light illuminating the passage.

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Getting There

Walking

Pasaje Tobar is located in the heart of Quito's Centro Histórico, near the Plaza Grande. From the Plaza Grande, walk two blocks west on Calle Sucre or Calle Guayaquil. The passage connects these two streets. Look for the entrance with the distinctive architecture.
Public Transport

Several bus lines and the Trolebús have stops near Pasaje Tobar. Get off at a stop along Calle Guayaquil or Calle Sucre. The Trolebús is a north-south trolleybus system that runs through central Quito. Bus fares are approximately $0.25-$0.35 USD.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Quito. Ask the driver to take you to Pasaje Tobar on Calle Guayaquil or Calle Sucre in the Centro Histórico. Ensure the driver uses the taximeter, or negotiate a fare beforehand. A short taxi trip within the city center typically costs $2 to $5 USD.

Discover more about Pasaje Tobar

Pasaje Tobar, located in the heart of Quito's historic center, stands as a testament to the city's early 20th-century commercial boom. Constructed in 1925 by architect Luis Felipe Donoso Barba, the passage reflects a historicist, neoclassical style inspired by the covered passages of Paris. These passages, precursors to modern shopping malls, became popular in Latin America as part of the early 20th-century architectural movements.Pasaje Tobar connects Calle Guayaquil and Calle Sucre, just a few blocks from the Plaza Grande, and was once known as 'Del comercio bajo'. The building originally housed shops on the ground floor, with offices and luxury apartments on the upper levels. The passage's design features a striking triple-height space illuminated by natural light through its iron and glass roof, reminiscent of Parisian exposition halls.While many similar passages declined in the 1970s with the rise of modern shopping centers, Pasaje Tobar retains its historical charm and continues to host a variety of commercial activities. Today, visitors can explore unique shops and immerse themselves in the local culture.