Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is nestled in an Andean valley at an elevation of 9350 feet. It is the highest legally designated capital city in the world.  La Paz, Bolivia is higher, but it is an economic, not legal capital. The city is literally surrounded by volcanoes -- some of these, like Mt. Pichincha, very much active. Quito is considered to be one of the most beautiful capitals in the world. The historic center of Quito, known as the "Old City" is replete with narrow and winding cobblestone streets, 86, at last count, magnificent churches and many open squares. The buildings that line the streets reflect Spanish colonial influence with their balconies, red-tile roofs, thick columns and central patios. The importance of the colonial remnants found in the Old City prompted UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization) to declare Quito a Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 1979. The population is estimated at 2.8 million.