Full House - The Casa San Marcos

All but hidden away on one of the emblematic streets of the Old Town, a restored mansion houses a treasure trove. The Casa San Marcos is a haven for lovers of art and culture, as well as those looking for a ‘different’ place to rest their heads while exploring the city. Part art gallery, antiquarian, café and hotel, the Casa San Marcos is a true find.

The mansion on Calle Junín, three blocks away from independence square, was originally built in the 17th century. In the early 20th century, it was divided and re-thought by one of the outstanding Italian architects of the era, Antonino Russo. It then fell into disrepair and was divided up between many families.

It wasn’t until the present owners, Mayra Ribadeneira and her associates bought it in 2006 that the house took on a new lease of life. It has taken over three years of dedication, passion and investment for Mayra’s dream of creating a space in the Old Town for lovers of art to come true. In 2009, the Casa San Marcos opens its doors officially, with an art gallery, the antique collection, the boutique hotel and a cafeteria to attract visitors.

The house has been restored with great love and attention to detail, saving the original wooden floorboards, and roofs of wooden beams and bamboo, and rebuilding for instance, the stairs with the original colonial-era techniques. The structure and colonial layout was retained. The house contains a wonderful collection of art, ranging from the Republican to the contemporary, as well as stunning collectors’ items – all for sale.

The collection roams over three floors. The mansion’s configuration on the steep hill which drops down to the south of Calle Junin enables it to harbour many interesting spaces. These can also be used for events. On the upper floor, for instance, the owners have created rooms for guests, all decorated with fine objects and antiques, and all very comfortable.

Downstairs, a terrace has been eye-catchingly adapted for the Casa’s café (open Tuesday to Sunday, Noon to 8 pm), which affords great views of the Old Town and the Virgin of Quito on her hilltop beyond. The Casa San Marcos is a welcome addition to the San Marcos neighborhood’s growing attractions, which include the Ecuadorian Architecture Museum, the colonial mansion of the Fundación Caspicara, the Manuela Sáenz Museum, the Catalina’s Museum, the Watercolor Museum, the fine restaurant Octava de Corpus and the regenerated square with its 17th century church.

A phone call to warn of a visit is appreciated, but not mandatory.