Quito
a city and capital of the republic of Ecuador; on the E. s slope of the W. branch of the equatorial Andes; 150 miles from Guayaquil. The volcanic mountain of Pichincha is the basis on which it rests. In the principal square stand the cathedral, the episcopal palace; the town house, and the palace of the Audience. Manufactures include coarse cotton and woolen goods, hosiery, lace, jewelry, and confectionery. It has a trade in agricultural produce, and exports iron, steel, and indigo. The great danger of Quito is from earthquakes, and from the vicinity of burning mountains, which often break out into the most tremendous eruptions. On Feb. 4, 1797, 40,000 lives were lost. The height of Quito above the level of the sea is 9,534 feet. Pop. about 70,000.