The $200 million dollar project to restore the Old Town district of Ecuador's capital, Quito, is nearing completion, according to the Associated Press.

The Old Town's regeneration has been ongoing since 1978, when the UNESCO World Heritage site was deemed to be in a state of decay.

Under the current mayor, Paco Moncayo, the district has seen nearly 200 landmarks, such as the city's stunning monasteries and cathedrals, restored to their former glory.

Andrew Swigilsky, manager of the Patio Andaluz hotel, told the Associated Press: "Before, tourist operators wouldn't bring travellers into the Old Town and tourists wouldn't come here on their own either.

"But now everyone wants to come here, the locals, tourists, and even new businesses, local and foreign, are vying to get into this part of Quito."

The city's rebirth has seen Quito transformed from a south American stop-off point to a haven for travellers looking to experience the real Latin flavour of the continent.

Quito is famous for being the second-highest city in the world, at nearly 10,000 feet above sea level. Only Bolivia's La Paz can claim to be higher.

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