The Basilica del Voto Nacional is one of Quito’s most iconic landmarks, known for its towering neo-Gothic architecture, intricate details, and breathtaking panoramic views. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just capturing memories on your phone, this stunning basilica offers endless opportunities for incredible shots.
Here’s how to make the most of your photography session at the Basilica del Voto Nacional!
1. Capture the Grand Facade in the Best Light
The Basilica’s towering exterior is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon, when the soft sunlight enhances the intricate stone carvings.
📍 Best Spot: Stand at the Plaza in front of the Basilica to capture the entire facade with the sky as a backdrop.
📷 Pro Tip: Use a wide-angle lens or the panorama mode on your phone to fit the entire structure into your frame.
2. Highlight the Unique Gargoyles
Unlike traditional European cathedrals, the Basilica del Voto Nacional features Ecuadorian wildlife as its gargoyles, including iguanas, condors, tortoises, and armadillos. These creatures make for unique close-up shots.
📍 Best Spot: Walk along the exterior of the Basilica and zoom in on the stone gargoyles decorating the facade.
📷 Pro Tip: Use a telephoto lens or your phone’s zoom feature to capture details without distortion.
3. Climb the Towers for the Best Views of Quito
One of the top photo spots is from the Basilica’s twin clock towers and the Condor Tower, offering spectacular panoramic views of Quito.
📍 Best Spot: Head up the wooden staircase inside the Condor Tower for a dramatic cityscape shot with the Basilica’s spires in the foreground.
📷 Pro Tip: Bring a tripod for stable shots, especially at sunrise or sunset when the lighting is low.
4. Frame the Stained Glass Windows
Inside the Basilica, vibrant stained glass windows create a stunning display of light and color. These windows are perfect for capturing artistic and moody shots.
📍 Best Spot: The main hall has the most striking stained glass windows.
📷 Pro Tip: Adjust your camera settings to a higher ISO and lower shutter speed to capture the glow of natural light filtering through the windows.
5. Capture the Basilica at Night
When the sun sets, the Basilica del Voto Nacional is beautifully illuminated, creating an entirely different atmosphere. The golden lighting against the dark sky makes for a dramatic and mysterious shot.
📍 Best Spot: The Plaza in front of the Basilica or from a nearby rooftop bar for a unique perspective.
📷 Pro Tip: Use long exposure settings (or Night Mode on your phone) to capture the glow of the lights without overexposing the image.
6. Include People for Perspective
Adding a human element to your shots can emphasize the scale of the Basilica and make your photos more dynamic.
📍 Best Spot: The front entrance or inside the Basilica’s vast interior.
📷 Pro Tip: Have someone walk toward the entrance or stand beneath the towering ceiling to create a sense of scale.
Final Tips for Basilica Photography
✔ Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
✔ Experiment with angles – try low-angle shots to make the towers appear even taller.
✔ Respect the space – remember it is an active place of worship.
✔ Use HDR mode on your phone to balance the light and shadows.
Plan Your Visit to Basilica del Voto Nacional
📍 Location: Carchi & Venezuela, Quito, Ecuador
🕒 Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: Around $2 to access the towers
Whether you’re looking for architectural details, panoramic city views, or artistic lighting, the Basilica del Voto Nacional is a must-visit for photographers.
📷 Ready to capture Quito’s most photogenic landmark? Pack your camera and head to the Basilica del Voto Nacional for an unforgettable photography experience!