Museo de Arte Colonial, Quito

The National Museum of Colonial Art is housed in a 17th-century mansion. Inside you'll find a large collection of paintings and sculptures of Quito as well as Spanish colonial furniture. Through this museum's works, you can get a sense of the tragic events of the colonial times. Some of the paintings from this dark period in the country's history can be difficult for visitors to look at as they depict bloody scenes. The use of such extreme depictions was meant to literally put the fear of God into the indigenous peoples, so they would convert to Catholicism. In addition to these, there are beautiful pieces that date back to the 16th-19th centuries with sculptures as well.

Why You Should Visit:
Provides a good overview of colonial art and can help to illuminate some of its themes and styles, which is helpful when viewing colonial art in the neighboring churches and convents.

Tip:
Zero admission fee; however, photos are not allowed, even without a flash, except in the open courtyard.
If you don't read Spanish, hire a guide.