The Virgin of El Panecillo: World’s tallest statue made of aluminium and other metals

The Virgin Of El Panecilo, located in Quinto, the city of Eternal Spring, sets the record for having the world’s tallest aluminium statue. The pedestal on which the sculpture is secured is 11 meters, which adds further height to the statute, making it 41 meters tall, even taller than the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro.

The Statute of Virgin comprises thousands of pieces of aluminium, platinum and other metals, making it a piece of art which stands tall in the sky of Qunito. The masterpiece is the centre of attraction to numerous tourists, causing a huge footfall throughout the year. The Virgin of El Panecillo is a cultural and religious emblem for Quito, offering an ongoing reminder of the city's faith and religious orientation.

It is one of the Seven Wonders of Quito, along with the Church of the Company of Jesus, the Basilica of the National Vow, the TelefériQo cable car, the La Ronda neighbourhood, the Middle of the World City, Itchimba Park, and a must-see for anyone visiting the Capital of the Center of the World.

The foundation is made up of 18 columns that symbolize Ecuador's provinces at the time, building began in the early 1970s. An 180⁰ vista at the summit of the base provides unrivalled panoramic views of Quito. The base is capped with a globe and a serpent, alluding to the original sin from which the Virgin emerges.

The sculpture shows the Virgin Mary as she is depicted in the Book of Revelation - the lady of the Apocalypse - a lady with wings and a chain shackling the snake. Finally, she wears a crown with 12 stars, representing the 12 apostles. Bernardo Legarda, one of the paramount painters of the Quito school, was the sole motivating force behind crafting this shrine.

It is a sign of identification and local pride for Quito locals, making it a really authentic and highly appreciated monument.

Quito, the equatorial city, is the gateway to the four worlds of the Euador: Galapagos, Pacific Coast, Andes and Amazon.  The city is the closest city to the sun and the only spot where standing with one foot in each hemisphere is possible. This city is designated as the First Cultural Heritage of Humanity for its Historic Center, which combines pre-Hispanic, colonial, traditional, and modern elements.