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The 8 Famous Churches of Cuenca Ecuador

Paul @ Travel is Life
The 8 Famous Churches of Cuenca

These are the 8 Famous Churches of Cuenca Ecuador, depicted as an art installation above in the historic center of the city. All these churches are within walking distance of one another and you can visit or tour them while visiting Cuenca. Some are free to enter and others charge a small admission fee. Below is more information about each church.

#1 San Francisco

One of the most prominent churches in Cuenca that sits across from Santo Domingo in the city center, famous for its gold carvings. This church is currently maintained by the city for historic preservation.

#2 Todos Santos

The oldest church in Cuenca constructed in the 1530s. This church was instrumental in helping the Spanish conquistadors establish the Catholic faith in a Inca dominated culture.

#3 San Blas

Construction of this church was dedicated to San Blas and dates back to the 16th century, in May 1557, a few days after the city of Cuenca was founded. In 1935 a new restored temple was built both inside and outside, preserving its original structure as a base.

#4 Iglesia del Sagrario

Commonly referred to as the “Old Cathedral of Cuenca”, this church was the main place of Spanish worship during the time of Spanish colonization in Cuenca, and now functions as the Museum for Religious Art.

#5 San Alfonso

Characterized for its beautiful bell tower and two symmetrical towers, which reach a height of 42 meters.

#6 Santo Domingo

Built in the 20th century, this church sits at the center of Cuenca and is famous for its bright blue domes that sit above the church. The domes can be seen as you enter the city from all sides, letting you know you're close.

#7 Santo Cenáculo

A symbol of religiosity that represents the Last Supper of Jesus. Originally built in 1894, after the sacrilege that occurred in the city of Riobamba while the liberal revolution in charge of the alfarista troops was transcending.

#8 Iglesia San Sebastian

Built in the 16th century and named after the Saints Fabián and Sebastián, however years later, the first Saint was forgotten. This church sits on the Western barrio of San Sebastian in front of the park that bears the same name.

List of All Churches in the Historic District of Cuenca, Ecuador

There are a lot more churches in the historic district of Cuenca — about 53 actually (one for each day of the week they say). Other churches include:

Which historic churches in Cuenca have you visited?

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