The Church of the Society of Jesus, also known as La Compañía or the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, stands in the historic centre of Quito, Peru's address listed here for the site. It is a Baroque Jesuit church dating from 1605, and it is a natural stop for anyone interested in the colonial religious architecture of the Americas.
What to look for
- The stone facade: its intricate carving is the first thing many visitors notice from the street.
- The interior: the church is known for its elaborate gold-leaf decoration, which fills the space with warm, glowing detail.
- The architecture: it is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful examples of colonial religious building in the region.
Planning a visit
The church is a place of worship as well as a historic monument, so it is worth allowing time to move quietly and respectfully through the building. Its address is García Moreno N10-43 y Sucre, and you can contact the church by telephone at +593 2-258-4175 for current visiting arrangements.
Because it sits in the historic centre, the church pairs easily with a wider walk through the old city. Visitors often combine it with other colonial buildings and streets nearby, making it a good anchor for a day spent exploring Quito on foot.
