The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco is the largest and most important colonial complex in Quito — a vast ensemble of church, convent, cloisters, and plazas that covers several city blocks on the western side of the Historic Centre. Construction began in 1535 and continued for over a century, which is why the complex shows a range of architectural styles from early Spanish Renaissance through Mudéjar to Baroque.
The main church is entered from the Plaza de San Francisco, one of the most beautiful public spaces in Quito: a large sloping square with the church's twin-towered facade rising above. Inside, the Baroque main altar is covered in gold leaf and flanked by a remarkable series of paintings from the Quito School. The adjoining museum (Museo Franciscano) contains a rich collection of colonial religious art, furniture, and manuscripts. The cloisters, visible on the museum tour, are serene courtyards planted with flowers and ancient trees. Allow two hours for the full experience.