Carondelet Palace occupies the north side of Plaza Grande in Quito’s historic centre and serves as Ecuador’s seat of government. Its facade looks onto the square, where the palace shares the scene with the Metropolitan Cathedral and other historic buildings. When interior visits are available, a guided tour can include the courtyard, historic rooms and gifts presented by world leaders. Access has not always been possible, so check whether tours are running before planning your visit. From the plaza, you can still take in the palace exterior and the activity around the square.
The palace on Plaza Grande
Carondelet Palace stands on the north side of Plaza Grande, Quito’s central square, and is the seat of Ecuador’s government. The palace is part of a group of historic buildings around the plaza, alongside the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace and the Municipal Palace. The square’s Independence Monument stands in the centre.
The building’s present appearance took shape in the early 19th century, when Baron de Carondelet arranged renovations. In 1956, a major reconstruction kept the facade but replaced the rest of the building with a reinforced-concrete structure. The palace is named after the baron, who was president of the Royal Audience of Quito.
Inside, when visits are running
Interior access has varied. Guided visits have included rooms and corridors, a courtyard and gifts presented to the president by leaders from other countries. Murals made with ceramic pieces depict episodes from Ecuador’s history; portraits of former presidents and the presidential flag are also among the details described inside. A grand ballroom and terrace overlooking the centre of Quito have been part of the visit.
The palace’s political history is closely tied to the square. President Gabriel García Moreno was assassinated at the palace on August 6, 1875. Public demonstrations and other events can affect access, so check whether a tour is operating before setting out. If entry is unavailable, the facade and the changing scenes in Plaza Grande remain visible from the public square.
Perguntas frequentes
Can you go inside Carondelet Palace?
Interior visits have been available as guided tours, but access has also been restricted. Check whether tours are running before your visit.
What can you see on a palace tour?
Tours have included the courtyard, historic rooms, gifts presented by world leaders, ceramic murals and portraits of former presidents.
Where is Carondelet Palace?
It is on the north side of Plaza Grande, also called Plaza de la Independencia, in Quito’s historic centre.
