Many tourists say that there is a Parisian spot in Quito. And they are partly right. If you have a walk in the old city and find yourself in one of its squares, a marvelous view will appear before your eyes with the Basilica of the National Vow in the spotlight, which may strongly resemble the world-famous Notre-Dame de Paris.

The construction of the temple began in 1883. The Gothic style in architecture was at its peak at that time, so the architects studied European cathedrals as examples and chose the best ones to borrow for their design. But if you look closely, you will notice a few particular details that were improved by the creators of the temple. For instance, the mystic creatures, traditional for the Gothic style, usually located on the cathedral walls, are replaced by the local fauna species. So, in the design of the Basilica of the National Vow, you will not find chimeras or gargoyles popular in the Middle Ages, but turtles, dolphins, pelicans, and even monkeys instead.

Twelve years after the foundation stone was laid, the yet unfinished temple was consecrated by the Pope, and regular services began to be held there.

Even still unfinished, the cathedral mesmerizes with its beauty. Two tall towers are seen from any corner of the city. The clock is indicating the time with a sweet bell sound. The stained glass windows and a huge rosette in the central part of the main facade are gorgeous. There have never been such temples in Quito.

Each tower hosts observation decks which reveal the stunning view of the city. It isn’t easy to climb such a height: the old staircases with very narrow and high steps have to be conquered slowly. Here, you can take a break in your trip by having a cup of coffee in a cafe located on one of the upper floors of the temple.