Words & Photos: Trail Forth Journal.
Arriving in Cuenca feels like stepping into a city that has chosen to remain in constant dialogue with its past while fully embracing contemporary life. As a foreign visitor, what immediately stands out is the harmony of its remarkably preserved heritage architectureāstill alive and deeply woven into daily life. This is not a historic centre frozen in time, but a city where centuries-old churches, plazas, markets and homes continue to be actively used by its residents.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cuencaās Historic Centre is defined by its colonial-inspired urban layout, cobblestone streets and faƧades of adobe, stone and clay tile. These scenes may evoke comparisons to European cities such as Salamanca or parts of Seville, yet Cuencaās identity is unmistakably Andean. Unlike many heritage destinations, the city retains a human scale that invites slow exploration on foot, encouraging visitors to pause, observe and truly connect.
Historic Center of Cuenca.
Public spaces are also an essential component of this architectural treasure. CalderĆ³n Square, the heart of the city, is surrounded by historic buildings and well-maintained gardens, creating an environment that blends aesthetics with functionality. The cobblestone streets and balconies adorned with wrought iron and flowers are characteristic of this area and evoke an atmosphere that transports visitors to past eras.
Restored mansions, wrought-iron balconies, interior courtyards and museums housed in former residences further reinforce Cuencaās reputation as one of Latin Americaās finest examples of heritage preservation.
A walk along the Tomebamba River Barranco is essential. From here, visitors can admire the iconic hanging houses and witness the contrast between historic Cuenca and its modern expansion. Nearby, the Pumapungo Museum and the archaeological remains of CaƱari and Inca settlements reveal that the cityās history long predates the colonial period.
Landmarks such as CalderĆ³n Park, San SebastiĆ”n Square and the 10 de Agosto Market immerse travelers in local life, flavours and traditions. For sweeping views, the Turi Viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama of the city framed by surrounding mountains.
Cuenca invites travellers to slow down and savour meaningful experiences: guided walking tours through the Historic Centre, visits to traditional toquilla straw hat workshopsāoften mistakenly called āPanama hatsāāand culinary routes through cafĆ©s and local restaurants. It also serves as an ideal base for excursions to the nearby Cajas National Park, where pristine lakes and highland pĆ”ramo landscapes provide a striking natural contrast to the cityās architectural elegance.
Unlike many historic cities around the world, Cuenca achieves an exceptional balance between preservation, authenticity and quality of life. It is less crowded than many European heritage destinations and more relaxed than larger Latin American cities. Visitors encounter a genuine, safe and culturally enriching experience.
To visit Cuenca is to understand that heritage is not merely something to admireāit is something to live. This is a city best discovered slowly, one that feels welcoming and leaves travellers with the sense that, even briefly, they became part of its story.
šŖšØ Ecuador
Editor
