Description

Located in the heart of the historical quarter of Quito, in what is called Plaza del Teatro or Plaza Chica (small square), this is a colonial building which has been under reconstruction for several years, due to the extent to which it had deteriorated. It is currently going through the final phase of its restoration, which has been funded by private enterprise.

The construction of this theater started in 1877, at a cost of 111.000 Sucres at the time. A couple of years later, an unknown group attempted, without success, to burn the place to the ground. Repair-work was carried out by the government during 1892, under the direction of the German architect Francisco Schmidt. Its style is reminiscent of the European opera houses.

Before its restoration, it was one of the main cultural centers of the city.