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Museums & galleries

Old Cathedral of Cuenca

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Old Cathedral of Cuenca

Old Cathedral of Cuenca

Located in downtown Cuenca, this structure dates back to the mid-16th century of Spanish colonial rule. While it was originally built as a cathedral, it now functions as a religious art museum. Visitors go here to view a collection of sacred artifacts and historical altars housed within the colonial architecture.

Getting There

The site is situated in the heart of the city centre at Calderón Park. Because it is centrally located, it is accessible by foot from most downtown hotels and plazas. The walk from the main city center typically takes only a few minutes.

Visit Duration

Depending on your interest in colonial religious art, allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to walk through the museum and examine the displayed artifacts.

When to Visit

The site can get crowded during local religious holidays and weekends. To avoid the largest groups, plan your visit for weekday mornings. The weather in Cuenca is temperate year-round, though afternoon rain is common, making morning visits more predictable.

Nearby Attractions

Due to its central location, this museum can be easily combined with other nearby landmarks:

  • Parque Calderón (0.1km): The main plaza surrounding the cathedral.
  • New Cathedral of Cuenca (0.1km): The city's primary cathedral, located just across the park.
  • Iglesia de San Alfonso (0.2km): A short walk through the downtown streets.
  • Iglesia de San Francisco (0.3km): Another historic church within easy walking distance.

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

Tickets & tours

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

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.

0.1 km away

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.

0.1 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.

0.2 km away

Iglesia de San Francisco, Cuenca

Temples & religious sites

Iglesia de San Francisco, Cuenca

A 16th-century church on a square in Cuenca's old town, long known as a marketplace. It's a great spot to browse craft stalls and visit the church together.

0.3 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.

0.7 km away