Basilica of the National Vow
Émile Tarlier · Quito, Ecuador · 1988
Quito’s Basílica del Voto Nacional is an immense Gothic Revival church whose long construction history extends across much of the twentieth century. Its twin towers and elevated position dominate the northern edge of the historic center, while Ecuadorian fauna replace conventional European gargoyles in parts of the exterior decoration. The building combines a highly traditional ecclesiastical language with local symbolic elements and offers one of the most dramatic vertical spatial experiences in the city.