The Amazing Basilica del Voto Nacional

The Basilica Del Voto Nacional Is A Must-See for Any Traveler

The exterior entrance of the Basilica Del Voto Nacional. This is the tallest (115 meters) neo-Gothic church in South America.

When you’re in Quito, Ecuador, your bucket list is probably already full of amazing things. But if you only have time for one truly unforgettable experience, make it a visit to the Basilica del Voto Nacional. This isn’t just any church. It’s an adventure that takes you high above the city, giving you views that will make your jaw drop.

This is the largest neo-Gothic church in South America, it has a height of 115 meters (377.2 feet) and a length of 140 meters (459.3 feet).

When you go to visit the Basilica, take your time and spend a couple of hours taking in all of the architecture, art, and history. You will not be disappointed.

The Basilica is a masterpiece of architecture and a symbol of Ecuador. Its towering spires pierce the sky, and its intricate details tell a story of faith and history. You’ll feel a sense of awe just looking at it from the street, but the real magic happens when you go inside and start to climb the many floors. This is one tourist destination you don’t want to skip out on.

What Makes the Basilica So Special?

The Basilica del Voto Nacional stands out for a few important reasons. For starters, it’s the largest neo-Gothic basilica in the Americas. This means it looks like something straight out of a medieval European movie, but with a unique Ecuadorian twist. It’s a newer building, but it was designed to look like the grand cathedrals built hundreds of years ago.

The building itself is a work of art. The stained-glass windows inside are huge and colorful, bathing the church in a rainbow of light. Every corner you turn reveals another beautiful detail. From the floor to the ceiling, the craftsmanship is incredible.

The Climb: An Adventure to the Top

Most cathedrals let you look up, but the Basilica del Voto Nacional lets you go up. This is what makes it a must-do for any traveler who loves a good adventure. You’ll start your journey inside the main church and then begin a series of climbs.

You will go up a steep set of stairs and ladders. Some parts are a little narrow, which makes the climb even more exciting. The higher you go, the more you realize just how massive this building is. You’ll get to walk along a series of walkways and even on the roof itself.

The View from the Top

The reward for your climb is one of the most incredible views in all of Quito. You’ll step out onto the highest platforms and see the entire city spread out below you. The historic center with its old buildings and plazas looks like a toy town. You can see the rolling green mountains that surround the city in every direction.

From the top of the Basilica, you can truly appreciate the beauty and scale of Quito. The fresh mountain air and the 360-degree views make all the climbing worth it. It’s a moment you’ll remember long after you’ve left Ecuador.

Bacilica Del Voto Nacional Photos

This basilica is an absolute gold mine for incredible photos. From the moment you arrive, you’ll want to have your camera ready. The best shots are often found in unexpected places. Take a picture of the massive front doors or the colorful stained-glass windows from inside.

As you climb, you’ll find amazing photo opportunities at every level. Get a close-up shot of the unique gargoyles. They aren’t the scary monsters you see on other churches. These are native Ecuadorian animals! You can also take incredible panoramic shots of the city from the higher walkways. Don’t forget to grab a selfie with the city of Quito as your backdrop.

A Deeper Look at the Architecture

neo-gothic architecture inside the Basilica Del Voto Nacional.

The Basilica is a neo-Gothic building, which means it follows the style of churches from the Middle Ages. But what makes it so special is the unique Ecuadorian touch. Instead of traditional gargoyles of monsters and demons, the Basilica features gargoyles shaped like native animals. You’ll see turtles, armadillos, monkeys, and even iguanas.

This is a powerful symbol of Ecuador’s culture and biodiversity. The idea to use these animals came from the architect to celebrate the country’s unique wildlife. It’s a fun detail to look for as you explore the outside of the building. It’s these small details that make the basilica so special.

Interesting Facts About the Basilica del Voto Nacional

  • The Basilica is technically unfinished. Legend says that if the Basilica is ever completed, the world will come to an end. This is why the church’s construction has been ongoing for more than 100 years.
  • It is the largest neo-Gothic basilica in the Americas. Its sheer size is impressive from any angle, and it is a dominant feature of Quito’s skyline.
  • The gargoyles are native Ecuadorian animals, including turtles, armadillos, and even giant condors. This makes the Basilica one-of-a-kind.
  • You can ride an elevator for part of the way up the towers, but you still have to climb a series of stairs and ladders to get to the very top.
  • The Basilica was blessed by Pope John Paul II in 1985. The church is a very important place for people of the Catholic faith in Ecuador.
  • There are gift shops and a café at different levels of the Basilica, so you can grab a snack or a souvenir during your climb.

Planning Your Visit: What You Need to Know

Visiting the Basilica is an experience, not just a quick stop. Plan to spend a couple of hours there to truly enjoy it. You will want to take your time exploring the different parts of the church and making the climb to the top.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Wear comfortable shoes. The climb involves a lot of walking and going up steep stairs. You will thank yourself later for wearing sneakers instead of flip-flops.
  • The climb is not for everyone. While it’s not super difficult, it does involve heights and some narrow paths. If you are afraid of heights, you might want to enjoy the view from the ground floor.
  • Bring a camera. As mentioned, this place is incredibly photogenic. You’ll want to capture the epic views and the cool details.

A Landmark of Faith and History

The Basilica del Voto Nacional is more than just an amazing building. It’s a place of deep importance for many Ecuadorians. Construction began in 1883 and it was inspired by a promise from the government to build a church in honor of the country’s consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This is where the name “Voto Nacional” (National Vow) comes from.

The building is a constant presence in the city, and a symbol of the country’s faith. For tourists, it represents a chance to witness history and culture up close. The stories and legends behind the building, like the one about it never being finished, are what make it feel alive.

More to See Around the Basilica

After you’ve explored the Basilica, the surrounding area is also worth a visit. It is located near Quito’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can easily walk from the Basilica to other beautiful churches and plazas.

The streets around the church are filled with small shops and restaurants. You can grab a bite to eat or find a great spot to sit and admire the basilica from the outside. You will be able to see the towers and spires from many places, and it always looks impressive.

Why It Belongs on Your Bucket List

The Basilica del Voto Nacional is an experience that combines history, art, and adventure. It’s a chance to see a truly unique piece of architecture and to earn a view that few people get to see. It’s not just about looking at a building. It’s about becoming a part of its story for a few hours.

Every “Bucket List Bro” knows that the best adventures are the ones that challenge you just a little bit and give you an amazing reward. This Basilica delivers on both. It’s a chance to climb to the top of Quito and feel like you’re on top of the world.

For more information on the Basilica, you can visit their official website or the city of Quito’s tourism page.

Basilica Del Voto Nacional: Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit the Basilica Del Voto Nacional?

The best time to visit the Basilica is on a weekday in the middle of the afternoon. I went on a Saturday afternoon my first time, and the church was packed and there were lineups for the stairs and towers.

Check a couple days ahead of time before you go to make sure there are no events, and you should have no problems.