Atop Cathedral of Quito

The Cathedral of Quito, officially La Catedral, is a not-to-be-missed sight in Quito, Ecuador. The different types of gargoyles, alone, are worth a visit, but for $2 a climb up the towers is an experience which will not be forgotten.

If you have a fear of heights or desire OSHA compliance, you should probably pass on the climb, although an elevator will take you part of the way. The first upper level provides a view from the rear of the cathedral similar to that of a choir loft. The next level allows you to walk over the inner roof of the cathedral to the front via a narrow wooden platform.

Then the real climb begins, as the only way upward to the next level of the tower is via an almost straight-up ladder, followed by another ladder. The ladder has mesh by the rungs but no other safety features.

The tower at the rear of the cathedral has four levels, and one gets up close to the gargoyles and bells while enjoying a fantastic view of the city.

Another interesting aspect of the cathedral is the crypt, which is a maze of tombs, some highly decorated.

JOHN HEBERLE

Rochester, NY