The original Basilica of La Merced in Quito was probably constructed by the priests of La Merced in the 1500s or later. This building was badly damaged in 1660 due to an earthquake. Finally, new foundations were laid for the new Church of La Merced in 1701. The main tower was finished in 1736. In 1747 the completed La Merced Church was inaugurated. The main altar was built with intricate carvings in 1751 by Bernardo de Lagarda. Inside the Ecuadorian church you will see a fine stone statue of Our Lady of Mercy. It is said that this sculpture has saved Quito from many volcanic eruptions as well as earthquakes.
There is a fountain that holds a statue of Neptune, a pagan god and on the walls there are artworks by Samaniego, Pinto, Hernando da la Cruz and Victor Mideros. All very impressive and inspiring.
Legend says that the tower, the only unblessed part of the church, is possessed by the devil. Supposedly the only person strong enough to resist the devil was a bell-ringer named Ceferino, and no one has dared enter the tower since he died in 1810.
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