The Church of San Francisco (Iglesia de San Francisco) located in the historic center of Ecuador's capital, Quito, is not only the oldest and most significant religious site in Ecuador, but one of the oldest churches in South America. The church also forms part of the City of Quito World Heritage Site and the first site ever inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1978. Interestingly, the top sections of the church’s baroque-styled structure bell towers were destroyed during an earthquake in 1868; they were never rebuilt to their original height.

Built by Brother Jodoco Ricke for the Order of the Franciscan Monks (1537-1560), the convent complex continues to be home to the Franciscan Monks.

Housing over 5,000 archaeological pieces, the museum is located in a Spanish colonial house built in the 17th century and displays 500 permanent objects in eight rooms. A must-see only steps away from Quito's Historic Center.