Museo Fray Pedro Gocial

Fray Pedro Gocial Museum has the largest collection of art of what is known as 'Escuela Quiteña' or 'Quito School'. The Escuela Quiteña is the name that was given to the art produced in the 'Real Audiencia de Quito' during Spanish domination, from the 16th century to the first quarter of the 19th century. The movement started in a school founded by the Franciscans where two priests, Fray Jodoco Ricke and Fray Pedro Gocial, the latter to whom the museum owes its name, taught arts and trade to the indigenous people.

The Escuela Quiteña gained rapid recognition in the colonies as well as in Europe. It consists of paintings and sculptures, mainly of religious themes. Its most renowned names are those of Caspicara, whose real name was Manuel Chili, Bernardo Legarda and Miguel de Santiago.

Fray Pedro Gocial Museum's collection consists of around 400 works distributed throughout the cloister hallways and several exhibition halls. The whole ensemble of the San Francisco church in itself is an architectural marvel of great historical importance. The  spectacular Choir of the Main Church can also be seen when visiting the museum.

Guides in Spanish are always available for free. If you should require an English guide, a request must be done at least two days prior to the visit.

Every Friday at 7 pm, the museum does a theatrical visit with traditional characters in costumes, a different experience because of the show and of the night illumination of the church and the premises. This is a fun and entertaining way to learn the history and legends of colonial Quito, especially for children. Reservations must be done to attend one of these.

The beautiful atrium of the cloister can be used for social or special events, which can also indlude a guided visit upon request.

Admission prices at regular hours are: General $2 - Students $1 - Children $0.50.

The admission price for the theatrical visit is $4 for everyone, except children and disabled who enter free.