Uncovering the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil

Uncovering the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil

Standing alone as one of Guayaquil’s most beautiful attractions, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil is a don’t-miss highlight of the Ecuadorian city. With her soft tones and double ornate towers, she is no doubt the queen of the skyline. But, her eye-pleasing innards are something to swoon over, too. So, ogle at her glistening exterior before heading in for a peek at the gothic cathedral ceilings and 126 stained-glass windows inside.

History and Architecture of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil was first built in the early decades of Guayaquil’s establishment, way back in 1547. However, the structure that stands today is not the original creation made from wood, which burned down in 1892. Even so, it still holds historic value, as it’s reconstruction dates back to a span of nearly 25 years that began in 1924.

Today’s masterpiece is a mix of the style and influence of three architects who contributed to the work; Italian architect Paul Russo was the first (responsible for the design), followed by Spanish architect Juan Orus Madinya, and then Chilean architect Alamiro Gonzalez. The Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil also known as the San Pedro Apostol Metropolitan Cathedral is regarded as a building of the Neo-Gothic architectural style.

Exterior features of the cathedral are flanked by curious sculptures that depict a winged bull, an angel, a winged lion, and a book. The figures are meant to denote symbols of will, knowledge, silence, and boldness. Other distinguishing features of the building include numerous archways, several chapels, two clock towers with needles, three naves, and a central nave dome.

Interior delights include an entrance hall, sanctuaries, a burial chamber, and the aforementioned 126 stained glass windows. Plus, a marble altar plus 5 other altars, balconies, columns, paintings, and exquisite sculptures.

When to Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil

The church is open to visitors every day of the week, with special regard for times of service and special events. Visiting the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil is free of charge and the doors are open daily from 9 am to 7 pm. Sunday services are held on every hour from 8 am to 1 pm and at 5 pm, 6 pm, and 7 pm.

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil also serves as the north star for many annual, religiously affiliated events. These are popular times to visit the church for special sermons, presentations, concerts, and parades. Three parades are expressly organized by the church; Corpus Christi (end of May), the Sacred Heart of Jesus (early November) and Christ the King (November 20).

    Guayaquil’s Route of the Churches

In addition to the above religious save-the-dates, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil is also linked with 7 other important churches in Guayaquil in an event regarded as the Route of the Churches. The Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil is the starting point of the route, an annual tradition that today attracts many spectators.

The Route of the Churches is a one day journey performed by the devout and faithful Catholics of Guayaquil who pray and worship at 8 churches in sequence. Typically, the traditional tour takes place on Holy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter every year. Other churches included on the route are: San Jose Church, San Alejo Church, Santo Domingo church, San Agustin church, La Merced church, Nuestra Señora de los Angeles (Our Lady of Angels) church, and the Metropolitan Cathedral Saint Peter the Apostle.

Where is the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil?

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil is located in the Rocafuerte parish on Chimborazo Avenue and 10 de Agosto Street, in front of the Parque Seminario. This is a centralized location in Downtown Guayaquil, about 4 blocks east of Torre Morisca on the Malecon 2000 and 8.5 km from Hotel del Parque Historico. 

  

Best Things to do on Malecón 2000 Guayaquil Pier

Best Things to do on Malecón 2000 Guayaquil Pier

Credited as the greatest urban renewal project to take place anywhere in South America, the Malecón 2000 is an impressive boardwalk in Ecuador. It’s regarded by a handful of names including the Guayaquil Pier, the Guayaquil Boardwalk, the Simon Bolivar Pier, Malecon del Salado, and the Malecón Simon Bolivar. But, the local lingo wins, as it is best known as the Malecón 2000.

What is the Malecón 2000?

The Malecón 2000 is a waterfront platform that is the result of an urban renewal project that blossomed in the year 2000, responsible for the beautification of many historic sectors in Guayaquil. In essence, the Malecón 2000 is the rebirth of the former Simon Bolivar Pier, one of the original public spaces in Guayaquil since 1845. Originally it was composed of wooden slats and cast iron lamps, but today it’s a paved urban park and pedestrian zone spanning 2.5 km (26 blocks) along the Guayas River.

What to do on the Guayaquil Pier

Masterfully crafted for tourism, the Malecón 2000 aka the Guayaquil Pier, caters to a wide variety of interests. It includes a long list of attractions including gardens, fountains, lagoons, a shopping mall, historical monuments, restaurants, bars, playgrounds, food courts, boat docks, and river tours. Leave plenty of time for walking, pauses for decadent treats, and moments to appreciate the vistas.

Guayaquil Outdoor Attractions: Simon Bolivar Pier

Part of what makes the Simon Bolivia Pier so grand is an emphasis on the impressive outdoor quarters. Guayaquil excels in luring city dwellers outdoors, and the Malecón 2000 is no exception. Wedged between the sparkling riverfront and billowing shade trees, walkers can revel in a defined pedestrian space along the boardwalk. From a pose near the Guayaquil letters to a ride on the biggest Ferris wheel in South America (La Perla) or some playtime in Safari Park, the outdoor fun is just beginning. Save time for a boat ride on the Henry Morgan Tour Boat, a walk-up Santa Ana Hill, and a stroll through the Magic Garden, too.

Historic Sites on the Guayaquil Pier

Although often overshadowed by the celebrated historic city of Quito, Guayaquil is also bursting at the seams with historic sites, many of them near or on the Guayaquil Pier. Only three years younger than the sky-high capital city, Guayaquil has plenty of its own olden day charm to bestow. On the Malecón 2000, it’s possible to stumble through dozens of historical attractions including the Cinemamalecón (a cultural cinema), a handful of museums, and oodles of historic monuments. A few noteworthy stops include the Naval museum (Museo el Fortin), La Rotanda (a historic meeting place), and the Torre Morisca (a clock tower).

Best Restaurants on the Malecón 2000

Outdoors and history lovers could easily spend several days padding through the Malecón 2000, with a genuine need for restaurants along the way. Fortunately, Guayaquil’s fabulous tourism infrastructure has accounted for this by strategically posting commendable eateries at every turn. Among them are plenty of notable restaurants like Resaca, and cafes like Cafe de Tera to choose from, but the outdoor food patios are an icon of the Malecón 2000. The airy outdoor food courts and markets boast discerning views of the river and a huge selection of both international and regional eats. Among the favorites of locals and travelers is the Mercado del Rio.

Guayaquil Shopping on the Malecón Simon Bolivar

In addition to everything else, the Malecón Simon Bolivar is also a haven for shopping. Regardless of personal shopping style, there is no doubt something for everyone. From craft stores and boutique shops to designer stores, artisanal markets, and modern shopping malls, the Malecón 2000 has it all. Find the classic shopping experience at the Centro Comercial Malecón (a large, modern shopping mall) just renovated in 2018, located on the south end of the boardwalk. Additionally, the Mercado Artesanal is the perfect gem for finding traditional Ecuadorian trinkets.

Unlocking Guayaquil: Las Peñas and Santa Ana Hill

Unlocking Guayaquil: Las Peñas and Santa Ana Hill

Topping out among the must-see places in Guayaquil is the Las Peñas neighborhood including Santa Ana Hill (Cerro Santa Ana). Boasting a colorful setting, historical relevance, and oodles of cultural sites; it’s easy to spend hours or days exploring this trendy pocket of Guayaquil. Prominent attractions include Numa Pompilio Llona Street, the Diego Noboa y Arteta stairway, the Santa Ana Hills Chapel, the Santa Ana Hills Lighthouse, and the El Fortin Naval Museum.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Calle Numa Pompilio Llona 

The Spanish word for street is calle, rendering a historic street named after the renowned Ecuadorian poet and philosopher, Numa Pompilio Llona. His work was quite popular at the turn of the 20th century, and today his namesake street holds great significance to historical Guayaquil. Considered among the oldest streets in the southern city, Calle Numa Pompilio Llona harbors numerous structures more than 400 years old. Many of them have been decked out with vibrant candy-colored paint and house an eclectic array of art galleries, studios, and boutique shops.

  

Escalinata Diego Noboa y Arteta 

Another patronymic icon of Guayaquil is a rather scenic stairway (escalinata in proper Spanish)  referred to simply as ‘Diego Noboa y Arteta.’ Named after the triumphant 19th-century Ecuadorian president, Diego Noboa y Arteta, it’s 444 steps are the main vein of Santa Ana Hill. Crossing the neighborhood vertically from the boardwalk to the hilltop; it effectively links an array of shops, restaurants, and bars. The plazas, fountains, and parks along the way also offer prime territory for viewing Guayaquil from above.

Iglesia del Cerro Santa Ana & Plaza de Honores

Among the sites of Santa Ana Hill is a religious site and the symbolic plaza which procedes it. The church is known as Iglesia del Cerro Santa Ana and the adjoining plaza is Plaza de Honores. The colonial chapel, built with local materials in 1548, looks over Guayaquil beneath traditional chapul wood beams, nineteen stained glass windows, and spiral pillars. Its decorative plaza was inaugurated more recently, in 2002, with displays of anchors, canons, and other maritime symbols which pay tribute to the patriotic symbols of the city.

Faro Cerro Santa Ana

Although in itself it is not a historical structure, Guayaquil’s blue and white striped lighthouse is a replica so-to-speak that signifies a blend of ancient and modern times. Rising nearly 19 meters high, the lighthouse built in 2002, rests on the highest point of Santa Ana Hill. It’s a placeholder for the previous lighthouse, which stood on Santa Clara Island since 1841. Visitors are welcome to climb the 52 spiral stairs that lead to the top of the lighthouse, highlighted by brilliant panoramic views from the top.

El Fortin of Santa Ana Hill Naval Museum

Also at the top of Santa Hill, lies the El Fortin Naval Museums and lookout point. Opened in 2003, the museum pays homage to Ecuadorian naval heroes and the country’s maritime history. Indoor and outdoor spaces display more than 20 relics and replicas including weapons, canons, boats, anchors, a sundial, etc. All of it sits on the historic site of the former La Polvorosa Fort, considered Guayaquil’s sole point of defense against pirate attacks since 1629.

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 How to Get to Las Peñas and Santa Ana Hill

The Las Peñas neighborhood including the many sites of Santa Ana Hills is located just 6.4 km south of Guayaquil’s premium hotel, Hotel del Parque Historico Guayaquil. Ideal for history, culture, and nature lovers; the hotel offers a variety of luxury tours and packages for exploring Guayaquil and Ecuador on a deeper level.

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Guayaquil Airport: The Gateway to the Galapagos

Guayaquil Airport: The Gateway to the Galapagos

Travelers seeking flights to the Galapagos Islands will quickly discover an obligatory journey through the Guayaquil airport (Aeropuerto Internacional José Joaquín De Olmedo). The bustling, historic port city rests in the southern palm of Ecuador, South America’s tiny equatorial country. But, Guayaquil is far more than a layover stop, worthy of at least a few days before and after an escape to the renowned Galapagos Islands.

International Flights: Guayaquil Airport to the Galapagos

Regardless of where travelers initially land in Ecuador, a trip to the Galapagos will inevitably loop through the Guayaquil airport. The Galapagos Islands do not receive any international flights, therefore, travelers must choose a connecting regional flight. While it is possible to fly direct from Quito, the flights are limited and the majority link with a layover at the Guayaquil airport.

Fortunately, flights to the Galapagos Islands depart daily. Coming from abroad, knowing where international flights arrive in Ecuador largely depends on the departure city and the airline carrier.

From the USA, flights from Miami and New York land at both the Quito and Guayaquil airports. Flights departing from Atlanta, Dallas and Houston land in Quito. Travelers will need to book an additional regional flight that connects to Guayaquil. Flights from New York and Miami are serviced by American Airlines. Fort Lauderdale flights are serviced by Jet Blue and land in both Guayaquil and Quito. United Airlines brings flights from Houston. Flights from Atlanta come via Delta Airlines.

When landing on the Galapagos Islands, there are two airports. For those who plan to take a cruise around the Galapagos Islands (after flying in), ensure that the flight lands at the correct departure port for your cruise. There are two options, the Islands of Baltra and San Cristobal.

How Long is the Flight from Guayaquil Airport to the Galapagos

Most travel companies and tourism boards recommend that all travelers flying to the Galapagos Island land in Ecuador at least 48 hours prior to their departure flights. Arriving early at the Guayaquil Airport will not allow only time to explore the city, but also ensures a buffer zone for any unforeseen travel delays.

The flights from Guayaquil Airport to the Galapagos Islands have a duration of approximately one and a half hours. Departure times vary. Flights from Quito take two and a half hours and typically leave early in the morning. When possible, it is recommended to book your flights in conjunction with your cruise. Not only does this offer cost savings, but it is helpful when flight delays occur, as it’s easier to notify the cruise provider when arrival times to the Galapagos Islands will be impacted.

What is Required When Flying to the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are one of the most ecologically preserved places on the planet. Setting for on this precious soil is no light endeavor. All visitors are expected to travel here with the utmost care and consideration. There are few special precautions to consider before flying to the Galapagos Islands.

All who enter the Galapagos Islands must have the following (according to the Galapagos Special Regime Government): a round trip ticket, a reservation that corresponds with the dates on the ticket (hotel or tours), a documented invitation from a Galapagos resident for extended stays, and a traffic control card issued by the Galapagos Special Regime Government Council. Travelers will also need to show proof identity with a passport or Ecuadorian identity card.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Use the handy infographic above, created by Nature Galapagos to ensure all requirements are accounted for.

Where to Stay in Guayaquil & the Galapagos Islands

For the ultimate experience in Ecuador, from Guayaquil to the Galapagos Islands, stay in the lap of luxury with the Oro Verde hotel group. Boasting the most elite hotel in Guayaquil, the Hotel del Parque Historico (a member of Relais & Chateau) provides superior experiences and packages from Guayaquil to the Galapagos Islands and beyond. Ensure an unforgettable trip to the Galapagos Islands with a stay at the exclusive Villa Escalesia.