Carondelet Palace, Presidential palace in historic center of Quito, Ecuador

Carondelet Palace is a neoclassical building in Quito's historic center, blending Spanish colonial elements with 18th-century design. The structure features a central courtyard with a fountain, grand halls with high ceilings, and decorated interiors used for government functions.

Governor Francisco Luis Héctor de Carondelet commissioned renovations in the late 1700s to create a unified government building. The structure was completed in 1803 and has served as the seat of government since then.

The palace remains the center of political decision-making and government work in Ecuador today. Its rooms reflect the nation's history through the people who use them and the decisions made within its walls.

Access is limited to guided tours that must be arranged in advance. Visitors need to bring valid photo identification and should expect some areas may not be open to the public.

Inside, several rooms show different stages of restoration and furnishings added over different periods. Some spaces contain items and decorations that reflect changes made as the building adapted to different governmental needs over time.

• Location: Quito
• Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture, Spanish Colonial architecture
• GPS coordinates: -0.21972,-78.51250
• Latest update: January 28, 2026 22:06