Quito: The City of Eternal Spring (and Volcanic Ash)

Welcome to Quito, the capital of Ecuador and home to nearly 3 million residents. Quito is known for its stunning colonial architecture, delicious cuisine, and unpredictable volcanoes that spew ash on unsuspecting tourists.

Geography

Quito sits on the eastern slopes of the Pichincha volcano, which last erupted in 1999, sending ash and debris across the city. This adds to the charm of Quito, as residents never know when the sky will turn dark with volcanic ash or glowing lava.

History

Quito was founded in 1534 by the Spanish conquistador Sebastian de Benalcázar, who was looking for a nice spot to build a city and conquer local tribes. The indigenous people weren’t too thrilled about this and put up a fierce resistance, but the Spanish eventually prevailed and built a pretty sweet city on top of a pre-existing Inca settlement.

Culture

Quito is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from the Spanish conquistadors, indigenous tribes, and even African slaves brought over during the colonial period. This has led to a unique blend of food, music, and art that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Attractions

No trip to Quito is complete without a visit to the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with stunning colonial buildings, museums, and churches. You can also take a cable car up to the top of the Pichincha volcano for some breathtaking views of the city, and maybe even a glimpse of a volcanic eruption.

The Weather

Quito is nicknamed “the city of eternal spring” due to its mild temperatures throughout the year. However, this can be a bit misleading as the weather can change on a dime, going from sunny and warm to rainy and chilly in a matter of minutes. Prepare for all four seasons in one day!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Quito is a city that never fails to surprise and delight, whether it’s with its stunning architecture, delicious food, or unpredictable volcanoes. Just make sure to pack a mask and an umbrella in case of ash or sudden rain showers. It’s all part of the fun!