Photos of Independence Square

Independencia Square is the center of Quito City. Around this square square, there are buildings full of artistic features of the late Italian Renaissance. Most of these buildings are two storeys with stone gates intricately carved. The Catholic Church at the southern end of the square, built in 1550 and completed in the 18th century, has a green tile dome and a gray and white column supporting the porch. It is a mixture of Arabic, Persian and Moorish architectural styles. The name of the founder of Quito City is inlaid with gold leaves on the outer wall, and there is the tomb of General Sucre in the courtyard. Opposite the church is the main palace, and the northwest corner of the square is the majestic government palace.