“A majestic building of stone” That’s how many describe the Antiguo Círculo Militar. It stands tall a testament to Quito’s rich history. Right here before you is more than just a building. It’s a living piece of Quito’s past.
The Antiguo Círculo Militar wasn’t always a cultural center. For many years it served as the social hub for Ecuador’s elite military. Imagine the clinking of glasses the murmur of conversations the laughter echoing within these very walls.
Built between 1918 and 1936 the building was a grand project. Architect Francisco Durini Cáceres designed it. It was inspired by the Palace of Versailles. The stone for the facade came from Latacunga. Skilled artisans like Pedro Cóndor and sculptors Segundo Ortiz and Manuel M Ayala worked on the impressive facade. They even carved the building’s name into the stone.
The grand entrance leads to two impressive vestibules. Portraits of important military figures like Eloy Alfaro and Antonio José de Sucre hang there. A magnificent staircase with Doric and Ionic columns leads to the upper floors. The decor features the condor and cacao bean symbols of Ecuadorian strength.
One of the most stunning rooms is the Salón de los Espejos the Hall of Mirrors. Its floor is a masterpiece of taraceado a technique using hundreds of thousands of tiny wood pieces. Seven types of wood including walnut from Africa were used. The two large rock crystal mirrors from 1920 add depth. The room’s furniture is in the style of Louis XV. Hand-made 19th-century tapestries adorn it.
A massive German chandelier hangs from the ceiling. It weighs a ton. It’s supported by railroad tracks. The brass ceiling details feature snakes symbols of intellect and military knowledge. Paintings by the Italian artist C Carlo hang on the walls.
The Antiguo Círculo Militar served as a military club until 1980. Years of neglect followed. It was General Paco Moncayo’s municipal administration that led its restoration. The building now houses a military library with 3000 books. It hosts cultural events. It’s a museum a piece of Quito’s living history. So let’s step inside and explore this fascinating piece of Ecuadorian history.