Itchimbía Park & Crystal Palace
Parque Itchimbía / Palacio de Cristal
A park on a hill east of the Old Town, next to the 'Crystal Palace' cultural centre with its steel-and-glass structure. It's one of the best viewpoints over the Old Town's church domes.
Itchimbía Park sits on a hilltop on the eastern side of the Old Town. The 'Crystal Palace' in the park is a steel-and-glass structure shipped from Europe at the end of the 19th century, originally built as a market. It has been restored and now serves as an exhibition and event venue. The viewing platform in front of the park faces the Old Town, with the Basilica of the National Vow, the church domes, and El Panecillo all in full view, and the lights are beautiful after dark. The park is free to enter and has walking paths and woodland. It's best to take a taxi up the hill, and after dark avoid walking down through the alleys on the slope.
Opening hours
Park approx. 06:00–18:00 (viewing platform depends on security)
Nearby sights
- Basílica del Voto Nacional
- Historic Center of Quito
- Santo Domingo Church & Plaza
- Plaza Grande & Metropolitan Cathedral
- National Museum of Ecuador (MuNa)
- Centro Cultural Metropolitano
- Church of the Society of Jesus (La Compañía)
- Museo de la Ciudad