Quito Guide

The Beginnings – Early Inhabitants (1500 BC - 1000 BC)

The area around Quito has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human presence dating back to around 1500 BC. The region was initially populated by indigenous cultures like the Caranqui and Quitu, who were part of the broader Andean civilization. These early inhabitants engaged in agriculture, cultivating crops like maize, potatoes, and quinoa, while also hunting and fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes. By 1000 BC, the Quitu people began to form more complex social structures, laying the groundwork for the later city.

The Rise of the Quitu Kingdom (1000 BC - 500 AD)

The Quitu kingdom was one of the major cultures in pre-Inca Ecuador, and Quito served as its capital. During this period, the Quitu people established a thriving city with advanced agricultural techniques, skilled craftsmanship, and an emerging religious and political system. The kingdom was known for its strategic location, sitting at the crossroads of several important trade routes. The Quitu kingdom eventually became part of the larger Andean cultural sphere, influenced by the rise of the Incas in the south.

The Inca Empire and Quito (15th Century)

In the 15th century, the Inca Empire expanded into the region, conquering the Quitu kingdom. The Incas, under the leadership of Pachacuti, sought to incorporate Quito into their vast empire. They established Quito as the northernmost region of the Inca domain, renaming it "Kitu" and making it an important administrative and military center. The Incas left a lasting mark on the city’s architecture and culture, particularly in the construction of impressive Inca walls and fortifications, such as those at the nearby archaeological site of Rumicucho.

The Spanish Conquest and Foundation of Quito (1534)

In 1534, Spanish conquistador Sebastián de Belalcázar, following the defeat of the Inca Empire, founded the city of San Francisco de Quito. This marked the beginning of Spanish colonization in the region. Quito became an important colonial city due to its strategic location and rich natural resources. The Spanish replaced many Inca structures with their own architecture, including churches, plazas, and government buildings. The city was also recognized for its role as a religious center, with the establishment of various Catholic missions and churches.

Quito in the Colonial Era (16th - 18th Century)

Throughout the colonial era, Quito flourished as an important Spanish center in South America. The city’s architecture became a blend of indigenous and Spanish styles, which can still be seen today in its historic center. In 1573, Quito became the capital of the Royal Audiencia of Quito, further solidifying its importance in the Spanish Empire. The wealth generated by agriculture, mining, and trade helped finance the construction of the magnificent churches and public buildings that define Quito’s colonial legacy. The city became known for its arts, culture, and intellectual life, as well as for its role in the Catholic missionary efforts.

Independence and Growth (19th Century)

In the early 19th century, as Spanish rule weakened, Quito played a significant role in Ecuador’s independence movement. In 1809, the first cry for independence was heard in Quito, marking the beginning of a series of revolutions against Spanish rule. The city was a focal point in the struggle for freedom, culminating in Ecuador’s independence from Spain in 1822. After independence, Quito became part of the new Republic of Gran Colombia and later the Republic of Ecuador, solidifying its role as the country’s political and cultural capital.

A Modern City with Colonial Charm (20th Century - Present)

The 20th century saw significant urbanization and modernization in Quito, while its historic center remained largely intact. In 1978, the city’s historic center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in recognition of its well-preserved colonial architecture and cultural significance. Today, Quito is a thriving city with a population of over 2.7 million, serving as the political, economic, and cultural heart of Ecuador. The city’s remarkable blend of ancient indigenous culture, colonial heritage, and modern growth continues to make it a unique and vibrant place to visit and live.