La Merced Church (Church of Mercy) is an 18th-century church that lures visitors with its museum of items from the area and cloisters. Over the years, the spiritual home has played an important role in the local culture as its stone statue of Our Lady of Mercy was said to protect the city from earthquakes and volcanic disruptions.
Capture photos of the church’s elegant façade from the La Merced Square. Admire its whitewashed walls and the tower that rises above the skyline. The grandiose church can be seen from many parts of the city and is recognisable by its four-sided tower with spired domes and intricate engravings of Moorish design. Today’s church stands on the exact spot where an earthquake destroyed its previous incarnation. See the pillars in the archway as you walk into the church. You will see symbols of the sun, moon and human faces that are culturally important to the indigenous peoples.
Relish the tranquil atmosphere around the nave and altar. Gaze up at the iconic Virgin of Mercy, carved from stone in the mid-18th century, in the high altar. Marvel at the collection of paintings by pre-eminent artists, such as Samaniego, Mideros and Pinto, as you walk through to the church’s cloisters.
Outside, there is a spacious patio with majestic archways and a carved stone fountain with a depiction of Neptune. Enjoy the pleasant ambience outside before heading to the library. There is an array of ancient scrolls, parchments and books in elaborate covers. Peruse the array of paintings and items, such as rare jewels, in the church museum.
La Merced Church is situated near to Independence Square in the Old Town part of Quito. You can get there by trolleybus or by walking. If you drive, there is ample street parking available. The church, which is free to enter, opens every day with earlier closing times on the weekend.
