San Diego Convent, Quito

The San Diego Convent and Museum in Quito is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate art and history. Located adjacent to the San Diego cemetery, the convent is a beautiful 17th-century Franciscan structure that overlooks the Old Town of Quito. Its serene courtyard is surrounded by thick walls that give it an aura of peace and tranquility.

The church's exterior is adorned with magnificent statues of angels, which are a sight to behold. Inside the museum, visitors can admire an impressive collection of religious and colonial art, including colonial works from both the Quito and Cusco Schools. One of the standout pieces is the finely carved pulpit by Juan Bautista Menacho, an indigenous wood-carver from Quito.

Another noteworthy piece is an 18th-century painting by Miguel de Santiago depicting the Last Supper, which is a fascinating piece of artwork. However, the oddest piece of work here is an unidentified painting by Hieronymus Bosch, titled Passage from this Life to Eternity. It remains a mystery how it got here and continues to be a topic of discussion amongst visitors.

At the end of the tour, visitors can climb the narrow stairs to the bell tower and walk along the rooftop. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area and appreciate the beautiful architecture of the convent.