El Panecillo - Home of the Apocalyptic Virgin Statue In Colonial Central Quito

Shungoloma is the original name given by the Quechua, which means "hill of the heart." How fitting that the Spanish claimed it for the Immaculate Heart of Mary!

The only figure in the world of the Virgin with wings...she comes to us from the 18th century inspired by the description of the Virgin in the Book of the Apocalypse.

In 1976 this monument was erected and upon it a replica of the sculpture created of 7,000 pieces of aluminum, the largest of its kind in the world.

Other names have been attached to her, but the Virgin of Quito rings the most common. Everyone in Quito knows that it replicates the original of Bernardo Legarda. That explains why she's also known as the Legarda Virgin.

I always thumb a taxi, as danger lurks as you walk, but then, that's true of all the south side. Quito Colonial tours usually include this gem or offer it separately.

Once up there, enter the monument and check out the mini museum. Then ascend the narrow stairs...definitely not for the handicapped. You just might get excited about the spectacular view.

Then, you could linger awhile over a cup of your favorite drink, maybe even eating a bite at Pim's Restaurant.

You really can't beat a gift of this virgin as a devotional visual aid for Catholics or as a souvenir. Prices for crafts are higher at the booths here because of the high volume of tourists.

Don't forget your camera for a view of Quito from a different angle, and if there happens to be a procession like this one of Carmen Alto for the feast of Our Lady of Carmel which takes place in July, you're in for a treat.

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