Virgin of El Panecillo, Aluminum statue on El Panecillo hill, Quito, Ecuador.
The Virgin of El Panecillo is a 41-meter monument made from over 7,000 pieces of aluminum on the hill of the same name in Quito. The base contains a small chapel and spiral staircases that lead up to the viewing platform at the crown.
Spanish artist Agustín de la Herrán Matorras designed the monument in 1976 based on a wooden figure by Bernardo de Legarda from 1734. The choice of aluminum allowed for a lightweight construction that could stand on the ancient Inca ceremonial hill of Yavirac.
The figure with angel wings reflects Quito's traditional depiction of the Virgin, known locally as the Winged Madonna since colonial times. Visitors notice the serpent beneath her feet, a symbol of triumph over evil that appears in many Catholic churches across Ecuador.
The climb inside uses narrow spiral staircases to reach the viewing platform, so visitors with fear of heights or limited mobility should consider this. Free days and opening hours change during religious holidays, so checking ahead helps avoid surprises.
The over 7,000 aluminum plates were individually shaped and welded, causing the monument to create an unusual metallic echo during thunderstorms. On clear days, visitors can spot both Cotopaxi and Cayambe volcanoes from the base.
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