Museums & galleries
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