History and Art in Ecuador

This week, we became acquainted with Ecuador’s history and art, beginning with a tour of churches in Quito’s centro histórico. One of the largest and most notable is the Basilica, which serves as a large cultural and religious landmark in the city. Built in the late 1800s and early 1900s as a tribute to Ecuador’s catholic devotion, it blends a Neo-Gothic style with traditional Ecuadorian elements, such as sculptures of indigenous animals like condors and Galapagos turtles in place of gargoyles. We enjoyed climbing the towers, appreciating the beauty of the architecture and the panoramic views of the city from the top.

We also toured the Quito Metropolitan Cathedral, situated in the plaza grande, and the Compañia de Jesús, characterized by gold sheets adorning the walls and ceilings.

Finally, we toured the home and museum of Oswaldo Guayasamin, one of Ecuador’s most famous painters. His art is known for its portrayal of social inequality and human suffering, particularly of the poor and indigenous people. His legacy has left an impact on Latin American art and continues to be exhibited in museums around the world.

These field trips help us to see the historical impact of Spanish colonialization on religion and archictecure in the city, as well as commentaries on resulting social inequality and suffering through art.