- Location and Geography
- Quito is Ecuador's capital located at 2,850 meters above sea level
- Situated in northwestern South America near the equator
- Borders Galapagos Islands and Pacific Ocean to the west
- Experiences mild, spring-like climate despite being near equator
- History
- Inhabited for at least 6,000 years by indigenous tribes
- Conquered by Incans in 15th century
- Founded by Spanish in 1534 as San Francisco de Quito
- Became Ecuador's capital in 1830
- Modern Features
- Population of approximately two million people
- Well-preserved historic center declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978
- Economy based on manufacturing, construction, retail, and tourism
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport serves regional and international routes
- Attractions
- Historic center features colonial architecture and churches
- La Mitad del Mundo marks approximate location of Equator
- TelefériQo offers aerial views of Pichincha volcano
- Mercado Central serves as bustling local market
- Basilica del Voto Nacional features unique Ecuadorian animal gargoyles