El Panecillo

El Panecillo, meaning 'the little piece of bread' in Spanish, is a prominent volcanic hill that stands as a natural divider between the northern and southern halves of Quito. At its summit rests the magnificent Virgin of Quito (Virgen de El Panecillo), a towering aluminum statue that has watched over the city since 1976. Designed by Spanish sculptor Agustín de la Herrán Matorras, the monument is famously known as the only winged Madonna in the world, inspired by Bernardo de Legarda's colonial masterpiece. Visitors can climb up into the base of the statue to view a small exhibition about its construction and step out onto a balcony for even more elevated views of the UNESCO-listed historic center below.

Reasons to Visit

• Unbeatable 360-degree panoramic views of Quito's historic center and modern skyline.
• The chance to see the world's only winged Virgin Mary statue up close.
• Excellent photography opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• A great spot to sample authentic, inexpensive Ecuadorian street food.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid walking up the pedestrian stairs from the Old Town due to high crime rates on that specific path.
• Avoid visiting during heavy rain or fog, as the views will be completely obscured.
• Do not flash expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash at the summit.

Local Transportation Tips

The most practical and safest way to reach El Panecillo is by taking a registered yellow taxi or using a ride-sharing app like Uber from the historic center. The ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes and should cost between $3 and $5 USD. Public buses do not go directly to the summit, and walking is strongly discouraged for safety reasons.

Travel Etiquette

• Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of local vendors or indigenous people.
• Dispose of your trash in designated bins to help keep the monument area clean.
• Maintain a respectful demeanor when inside the statue's museum, as it holds religious significance for many locals.

Recommended Age Group

El Panecillo is a versatile attraction suitable for most ages, provided visitors take a taxi to the top.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. The outdoor plaza is paved and stroller-friendly, but accessing the interior of the statue requires climbing narrow stairs.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will enjoy the massive statue and open spaces, though parents must supervise them near the viewing edges.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The panoramic views provide excellent backdrops for photography and social media.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Ideal for history buffs, photographers, and those looking to grasp the sheer scale of Quito.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. Easily accessible by taxi with minimal walking required at the summit, though the high altitude means pacing is essential.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The main plaza and outdoor viewing areas at the summit are flat and paved, making them accessible for wheelchairs and walkers.
• Access to the interior museum and the higher viewing platform of the statue requires climbing stairs and is not wheelchair accessible.
• Accessible restrooms may be limited at the summit.

Did You Know?

The Virgin of Quito statue is taller than the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro when measuring from the base to the top of the monument. It is constructed from exactly 7,400 pieces of aluminum.

Cool Statistics

• Height of the statue: 41 meters (135 feet) including the base.
• Elevation of the hill: 3,016 meters (9,895 feet) above sea level.
• Year completed: 1976.
• Number of aluminum pieces used: 7,400.