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Temples & religious sites

Iglesia de San Francisco, Cuenca

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Iglesia de San Francisco, Cuenca

Iglesia de San Francisco

The Iglesia de San Francisco is a 16th-century church located in the historic center of Cuenca, Ecuador. Visitors go here to view the colonial architecture and explore the surrounding square, which serves as a traditional marketplace where local artisans sell handmade crafts.

Getting There

The church is located within the old town, making it easily accessible by foot from the city center. Depending on your starting point in the central district, the walk typically takes less than 10 minutes.

Suggested Duration

Allow approximately 45 to 90 minutes to visit the interior of the church and browse the craft stalls in the plaza.

When to Visit

The square can become crowded during weekends and local holidays due to the market activity. Visiting during weekday mornings generally offers a quieter experience.

Nearby Attractions

Because of its central location, this site is easy to combine with other religious and civic landmarks in the old town:

  • New Cathedral of Cuenca: 0.2km
  • Parque Calderón: 0.2km
  • Old Cathedral of Cuenca: 0.3km
  • Iglesia de San Alfonso, Cuenca: 0.4km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Iglesia de San Francisco, Cuenca

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Iglesia de San Francisco, Cuenca Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Cuenca 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Cuenca grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

New Cathedral of Cuenca

Temples & religious sites

New Cathedral of Cuenca

A cathedral facing Parque Calderón in Cuenca, offering a grand and majestic display of religious architecture right in the heart of the city. It's an easy stop while strolling around the square, and well worth stepping inside.

0.2 km away
Parque Calderón

Parks & gardens

Parque Calderón

A square at the heart of Cuenca's old town, where the cathedral and surrounding buildings form a beautiful setting. It's a great starting point for exploring the city on foot.

0.2 km away
Old Cathedral of Cuenca

Museums & galleries

Old Cathedral of Cuenca

An old cathedral begun in the mid-16th century during Spanish colonial rule, standing at Calderón Park in downtown Cuenca. It now serves as a religious art museum, displaying a variety of altars and sacred artifacts.

0.3 km away
Iglesia de San Alfonso, Cuenca

Temples & religious sites

Iglesia de San Alfonso, Cuenca

This church stands in the heart of Cuenca's old town, its twin pointed spires hard to miss. The ornate interior and calm atmosphere make it a pleasant stop while wandering downtown.

0.4 km away
Iglesia de Todos Santos, Cuenca

Temples & religious sites

Iglesia de Todos Santos, Cuenca

Set on the banks of the Tomebamba River in Cuenca, the Todos Santos Church is regarded as one of the city's oldest places of worship. Inside, an ornate bell tower and three worship spaces create a serene atmosphere full of quiet charm.

0.7 km away
Church San Blas

Temples & religious sites

Church San Blas

A historic church at the eastern edge of Cuenca's old town, first built in the 16th century. The view of its fountain in the cozy square makes for a relaxing walk.

0.9 km away