Church of Santo Domingo, Quito

The Church and Monastery of Santo Domingo anchor a colonial plaza in the southern part of Quito's historic centre, marked by a statue of independence hero Sucre. Founded by the Dominican order in the sixteenth century, the church holds gilded altarpieces, Quito School paintings and a richly decorated chapel dedicated to the Virgin of the Rosary. The adjoining convent houses a museum of religious art. The plaza in front is a lively gathering point and a common starting place for walks through the old town.