El Panecillo
Pichincha
El Panecillo is a prominent 200-meter-high volcanic hill located between southern and central Quito, Ecuador, rising to an elevation of 3,016 meters above sea level. Historically known as Yavirac by the indigenous inhabitants, it was once the site of a sun-worship temple destroyed by Spanish conquistadors. Atop the hill stands the striking Virgin of El Panecillo, a 45-meter-tall aluminum statue created by Spanish artist Agustín de la Herrán Matorras in 1975. This statue, assembled from 7,000 aluminum pieces, depicts the Woman of the Apocalypse from the Book of Revelation, uniquely featuring angelic wings and standing on a globe while stepping on a snake, symbolizing classic Madonna iconography. The monument draws inspiration from the 18th-century "Virgen de Quito" sculpture by Bernardo de Legarda, renowned for its dynamic, dancing pose, representing a significant artistic shift in the Quito School of Art. The site offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Quito and serves as a cultural and religious landmark blending indigenous history with colonial and modern artistic expression.
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Consejo: The best time to visit El Panecillo is during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic views of Quito. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk or take a taxi to the base of the hill. Purchasing tickets or access passes in advance is generally not required, but checking local conditions is recommended. The site is accessible year-round, and visitors can benefit from guided tours to learn about the hill's history and the statue's symbolism. Modest discounts may be available for students or groups, so inquire locally.
Datos interesantes
- •El Panecillo's name means "small bread" in Spanish, reflecting the hill's shape.
- •The Virgin of El Panecillo statue is made of 7,000 pieces of aluminium and stands 45 meters tall.
- •The statue is unique worldwide for depicting the Virgin Mary with angel wings.
- •The monument represents the Woman of the Apocalypse from the Book of Revelation (12:1–17).
- •The statue was inspired by the 1734 "Virgen de Quito" sculpture by Bernardo de Legarda, known as "the dancer".
Historia
Originally called Yavirac by the indigenous people of Quito, El Panecillo was a sacred site with a temple dedicated to sun worship, destroyed during the Spanish conquest.
The hill's name, meaning "small bread" in Spanish, reflects its shape.
In 1975, the Virgin of El Panecillo statue was erected to symbolize the Woman of the Apocalypse, marking a modern addition that blends religious significance with artistic innovation.
The statue was designed by Agustín de la Herrán Matorras and engineered by Anibal Lopez, becoming an iconic symbol of Quito's religious and cultural identity.
Guía del lugar
Virgin of El Panecillo Statue1975
A 45-meter-tall aluminum statue representing the Woman of the Apocalypse, uniquely featuring angel wings. It stands atop a globe and steps on a snake, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The statue is a modern interpretation inspired by the 18th-century "Virgen de Quito" sculpture, symbolizing movement and grace uncommon in traditional Madonna representations.