Our guide picks us up the next morning and we start to explore the city of Quito, Ecuador’s capital. It sits high in the Andes Mountains at an altitude of 9,350 feet. Constructed on the ruins of an ancient Inca city, it’s known for its well-preserved colonial center, rich with 16th- and 17th-century churches and other structures blending European, Moorish and indigenous styles. I think it looks a lot like Spain, but I have not been to Spain quite yet.

Ecuador was previously called ‘Quito’, taking its name from the people who inherited the lands and the nation’s capital city. When those pesky Spanish came to loot and pillage, Quito’s name changed to Ecuador, the Spanish word for equator. To celebrate Ecuador’s lucky position as the middle of the world, a monument was built in 1935. More on that next post.

As I typically do, I asked the driver about street art in Quito. Mark and I hopped out for a quick picture. Then we saw this one below and I said it looks like a Bansky. The guide’s eyes popped out – he was not expecting me to know that. If you do not know who Bansky is, look him up. It is an interesting story.

The streets are colorful. The plaza is lively. It seems like everyone is sitting on a corner or walking down the street trying to sell something. Some for locals and some for tourists.

Seems everything can be reinvented/recycled into something new. Cars are kept looking good by those who can afford them. Getting the right tire/wheel/hubcap is everything. There were many stores just selling those.

I have no idea what the figures in the store represent but I did take a liking to the old man’s jolly face.

These toys are definitely old school. Sometimes I just love old school stuff.

Now this is the largest backpack me and my guide has ever seen. We were left wondering what is inside. The wearer was not sharing the information with us.

Some random facts about Quito…

In 1978, Quito became the first city ever declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sitting at 9,350 feet above sea level, Quito holds the title of the highest official capital city globally. Its altitude means cooler temperatures year-round and even protection from malaria.

Quito is nestled among eight volcanoes, including Cotopaxi, one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. The nearby Pichincha Volcano famously erupted in 1999, covering the city in ash.