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Cathedral of Quito facts for kids

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Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito
Catedral Metropolitana de Quito
Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito.jpg
Religion
Affiliation Catholic Church
Province Province of Quito
Rite Roman Rite
Ecclesiastical or organizational status Metropolitan cathedral
Leadership Archbishop Fausto Trávez Trávez, O.F.M.
Year consecrated 1572
Location
Location Quito, Ecuador
Architecture
Architect(s) Antonio García (1807 arch)
Architectural type Christian basilical church
Architectural style Gothic-Mudéjar,
Baroque,
Neo-classical
Groundbreaking 1562
Completed 1565
Direction of façade Northwest
Website
Website
PortonCatedral
The "Arch of Carondelet" entrance and its staircase.

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Spanish: Catedral Metropolitana de Quito), often just called la Catedral, is a very important Catholic church in Quito, Ecuador. It stands on the southwest side of the Plaza de la Independencia, also known as La Plaza Grande. This cathedral has been a key religious center for a very long time.

It served as the main church for the Diocese of Quito starting in 1545. Later, in 1848, it became an even bigger church called the Archdiocese. In 1995, it was recognized as the Cathedral of Ecuador. This makes it the oldest Catholic church in the entire country.

What Makes the Quito Cathedral Special?

The Cathedral is a large, white church. It has a tall bell tower on the right side of its main entrance. The church was built with a special design. It has three long sections called naves. These sections are supported by semi-ogival arches resting on square pillars.

A Look at Its Unique Style

The Cathedral's design dates back to the 16th century. Experts say its style is a mix of Gothic and Mudéjar. You can see Gothic features in the pointed arches of its naves. There's also a special walkway called an ambulatory that goes around the main altar area, known as the presbytery.

The Mudéjar style comes from a mix of Christian and Islamic art. This can be seen in the detailed carvings and the unique coffered ceiling inside the Cathedral. It's like a beautiful blend of different cultures and times.

Gallery

Images for kids

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Catedral metropolitana de Quito para niños

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