Carondelet Palace

Carondelet Palace in Quito

Carondelet Palace (Spanish: Palacio de Carondelet) is the seat of government of the Republic of Ecuador, in Quito. It is in Independence Square or Plaza Grande. It is the official residence of the President of Ecuador. It is also where the president is inaugurated.

History

The original structure on Quito’s Independence Square, also known as Plaza Grande, traces its roots back to the 1740s when it served as the headquarters for the Royal Audience of Quito, the authoritative body representing the Spanish Crown in Ecuador during the colonial era. Initially a rather makeshift establishment, it was cobbled together from assorted buildings acquired by the crown.

In 1799, Baron Francisco Luis Héctor de Carondelet assumed the presidency of the Audience, a role he held until his passing in 1807. Carondelet embarked on a mission to revitalize several key edifices in the heart of the city, including the Cathedral and the Palace. Engaging the talents of Spanish architect Antonio Garcia, Carondelet spearheaded the restoration and enhancement of the Palace. By 1803, the project reached fruition, unveiling a revitalized and cohesive Palace that more aptly reflected its stature as the epicenter of Spanish colonial authority in the region. The Ecuadorian War of Independence commenced in 1820, concluding on May 24, 1822, with the defeat of Spanish forces at the Battle of Pichincha.

Following this pivotal moment, Ecuador aligned with the Republic of Gran Colombia, comprising present-day Colombia, Venezuela, and Panama. During this period, the Palace briefly housed the headquarters of Gran Colombia's South Department and welcomed visits from the esteemed liberator Simón Bolívar. Impressed by the building, Bolívar officially renamed it after its restorer, leading to its enduring designation as the Palacio de Carondelet.

In 1830, Ecuador parted ways with Gran Colombia, and the Palacio de Carondelet assumed its role as the seat of government for the newly independent Republic of Ecuador. Ever since, it has been the workplace for every Ecuadorian President, spanning interim administrations and occasional dictatorships.

Gallery

• 
  Prince of Asturias Display. Gifts presented to the president by heirs to the Spanish throne, Felipe y Letizia, during their visit to Quito in 2012.
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  Europe Display. In the image: cups and golden dish, gifts from the Russian government in 2010.
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  Asia Display. Tiara and silver cups, gifts from the government of Iran.
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  America Display. Gifts from the government of Perú and international prizes for the Yasuní ITT initiative.
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  Presidential sash with which Rafael Correa invested as President of the Republic.