The Virgin of El Panecillo, standing guard over Quito

​This aluminum statue of the Virgin Mary was built in 1976 and stands about 41 meters tall, including its base. It is perched on "El Panecillo," a hill whose name means "the little bread roll"—named for its rounded shape.

From here, you get one of the best panoramic views over Quito, Ecuador’s capital. The statue is based on a 1734 sculpture from Quito’s colonial art tradition. What makes it truly unique is the wings—this is one of the few representations of the Virgin Mary shown with angel wings.

Compared to Brazil’s famous Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro—completed in 1931 and standing 38 meters  tall (plus an 8-meter base)—the Virgin of El Panecillo is slightly smaller in total height but equally commanding in presence.
While Christ the Redeemer stands still with open arms, symbolizing peace and welcome, the Virgin here is captured in motion, reflecting the dramatic baroque style of Quito’s colonial period.

Two statues, two countries—each watching over their cities in their own powerful way.