Ecuador 3
Gorgeous Views, Gothic Architecture, Ancient Curses: Exploring Quito’s Basílica del Voto Nacional from the Rafters
The historic center of Quito was the first city to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. And for good reason, it is gorgeous and is the most well preserved historic city in Latin America. This Basilica however is not quite in the historic center, rather it is just a little north, and a little newer than the colonial period.
Located on one of the many hill tops, that was originally the spot of an Incan place of worship, this grand Neo-Gothic church, the largest in the Americas, was originally commissioned in 1883 , blessed by Pope Paul John II in 1985 , and consecrated and inaugurated in 1988. However the church remains, technically, unfinished. Why? There is a legend that when the church is done, it will spell the end for the country and then the world. The evidence? One worker told us that on the sides of the church they were placing the seals of all the Latin American countries, but when they tried putting in the last one, an earthquake struck the city, so they stopped. Months after and they attempted it again, another earthquake struck and the idea to finish putting in the final touches was promptly forgotten. And indeed as you explore the cathedral you will find unfinished parts here and there.
So I know many of you are reading this and wondering it's a church so what? Well let me assure you, that if you are ever in Quito, this is a must see destinations. For reals, I am the history loving part of the couple, but even David, who's take on architecture is modern is best, was blown away with this cathedral that we ended up coming here twice! Continue Reading
Ecuador, Land of Swings: Flying Like a Condor
Ecuador was such an amazing place to visit, we had to devote another post, right away! I'm sure many of you have seen the "Swing at the End of the World", we'll post about that later. Right now we figured we'd take it up a notch and talk about a swing that you have to get strapped into, and get literally thrown off of your feet! This swing ain't no sweet picturesque swing. I mean yes if you're lucky you do get a great views of the city below, and the mountain ranges ahead (and thevolcano behind!). But this swing is all about the adrenaline rush!
12,000 Feet Above the Sea: What to Expect Hiking Quilotoa. Tips to see the one of Ecuador's gems.
One of the most Instagram-ed lakes in Ecuador is Quilotoa, a lake formed inside the caldera of a collapsed extinct volcano. This is in what is known as "La Sierra" or the mountainous highlands of the Ecuadorian Andes. The reason for it being so Instagram-able? Because it is located inside of a volcano that last exploded in 1280 , it is a lagoon of rainwater that collected and therefore the lagoon is rich of volcanic minerals . There are reports that these minerals also make it too acidic to swim in, however locals say it is safe. Before you try to find out, just remember, you are at over 11,000 feet above sea level so the water is going to be bitterly cold! Also since this was formed from collected rain water, aside from some algae there is no life to be found beneath the surface. And in case you were wondering it is estimated to have an average depth of 722ft and a max depth of 840 feet.
The colour of the lagoon, truly is gorgeous! It is like a mosaic of differing shades of blue, and when the sun peaks through it gives off this beautiful effervescent green too! Continue Reading