About
The Historic Center of Santa Ana de los Ríos de Cuenca, also known as the Centro Histórico de Cuenca, lies in the city of Cuenca in the Azuay province of Ecuador. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is the kind of place where a visit is measured in walking rather than in stops on a list.
What you will see
The center is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and for an urban layout that dates back to the 16th century. The streets and squares reflect Spanish colonial influence, and alongside them you can find elements from the indigenous and republican periods. Together these layers give the old town its character: the buildings and the way they are arranged tell the story of how the city grew.
What a visit feels like
Most of the appeal lies in simply wandering. Take your time with the streets, the façades and the squares, and let the sense of the city's planning and age guide your route. Because the site is an urban area rather than a single building, it suits a relaxed, unhurried day, and you can easily combine it with other parts of the city.
Planning your trip
- Location: Centro Histórico, Cuenca, Ecuador (Azuay).
- Contact: +593-7-282-1035.
- Also known as: Cuenca Historic Center or Centro Histórico de Cuenca.
If you are interested in colonial towns and the layered history of Ecuador, the historic center is a natural place to start your time in Cuenca.
