The Church of the Society of Jesus, or La Compañía de Jesús, is a Catholic church in Quito’s historic centre. Its Baroque interior is covered with gold leaf across the walls, ceilings, altars and carved details, giving you plenty to look at beyond the main altar. Construction began in 1605 and continued until 1765. Look for the carved volcanic-stone façade, then take time inside to notice the ornament and the work of Indigenous artisans. Keep the church’s role as a place of prayer in mind during your visit.
A church built over 160 years
Known locally as La Compañía de Jesús, the Church of the Society of Jesus was built and embellished between 1605 and 1765. The Jesuits drew on Roman churches including Il Gesù and San Ignacio. The long construction period brought together the work of artists associated with the Quito School, whose skill is visible in the carving and ornament throughout the building.
The church stands in Quito’s historic centre, on García Moreno Street. Its main façade is carved from volcanic stone. Green-and-gold domes rise above the exterior, while the interior is known for its extensive gilded decoration.
Gold, carving and Baroque detail
Gold leaf covers much of the interior, including the altars, walls, ceilings and carved woodwork. The effect is especially striking across the central space, but there is detail to examine at a closer scale too: sculptures, frames and ornament carry the gilding through the church. Three naves make up the interior, with one central nave and two lateral ones.
The main altarpiece includes a work by the artist Bernardo de Legarda. Paintings and canvases with finely worked details are also displayed inside. Take time to look beyond the gold surface to the forms and craftsmanship beneath it.
Details to look for on a guided visit
Guided tours in English or Spanish can help explain features that are easy to miss on a first walk through the church. These include Moorish elements, the building’s symmetry and a trompe l’oeil staircase at the rear. Tour explanations also draw attention to symbolic details: red walls refer to Christ’s blood, while Ecuadorian plants and Indigenous faces appear among the pillars.
The church is an active sacred space as well as an architectural landmark. Visitors come to pray and reflect, so keep your voice low and be considerate of those around you. Interior photography is prohibited; plan to take in the decoration without a camera.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the Church of the Society of Jesus in Quito?
It is at García Moreno N10-43 in Quito’s historic centre, near Plaza Grande and other historic churches.
Can you take photos inside La Compañía de Jesús?
No. Photography inside the church is prohibited.
Are guided tours available?
Guided tours in English or Spanish explain features such as the Moorish elements, symbolic details and the trompe l’oeil staircase.
When is a quieter time to visit?
Weekdays may be quieter than weekends, when street vendors are present outside.
