Basilica of the Sacred Heart del Voto Nacional - Landmark Twin Towers

The grand tour on your own does not provide the details and explanations of a guide.

The twin steeple clocks very gently gong the hour every hour on the hour.

Since my apartment nestles only two blocks away, I awaken to the church bells and the cooing of the pigeons.

The 24 internal chapels represent the provinces of the country.

The massive building contains a mausoleum. Little shops line the outside next to Venezuela Street all the way to the mighty doors of the church.

An elevator to the left side of the front door inside the fence will lift you to the balcony for a fee of $2.00.

I can't believe the changes since the last time I clambered up! On the third floor awaits a craft shop. From there, take the steps up to the next floor to the little cafe that will gladly serve you lunch or a cup of anything on hand...spectacular view in Quito of Quito!

You don't need to ride up in the slow elevator that awaits all the way to the right as you enter. Steps, or grados, give an option - for the physically able, of course!

The ticket takers will point the way.

Tickets to ascend sell at the little shop to the left of the towers at the front entrance to the basilica.

The twin towers present a landmark of the historic center from almost anywhere in the city or from the air.

For the procession of March 25 all the way to El Panecillo - from the huge door facing Venezuela through Venezuela and Garcia Moreno Streets, check out my pilgrimages page.

I've joined right in and loved it, singing hymns and praying all the way.

A statue of the Virgin sometimes leads the procession in a popemobile built for Pope John Paul II when he made his pilgrimage to Quito. Otherwise, able-bodied men volunteer and take turns carrying her on a platform.

The ritual concludes with an open-air Mass on this famous hill.

In 2006, a rainbow formed around the sun at the beginning of the Mass, and disappeared as soon as the Mass ended...wow!

With a tour guide, the ride back takes no second thought. Without one, you need a taxi. Walking back to the colonial center is not recommended except in a group, as danger lurks. Again, check that the taxi sports a number on the window, the company name on the side, and a running meter anytime you ride one.

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