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 Cuenca |
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Cuenca Province is one of the five parts included in the Castilla La Mancha Region - the other four regions include Toledo, Ciudad Real, Albacete and Guadalajara .
The entire city has some of the most beautiful and historic lands in all of Spain . It was discovered that Cuenca has been a site of burial grounds, which dates back from the Iron Age.
Cuenca is more famously known as the Eagle s Nest due to its position - atop a hill. The city is separated by a mysteriously large rock where the Huecar and Jucar Rivers meet.
Originally resided by the Arabs, this provincial city is divided into two obvious parts - the modern and the old part. Obviously, the modern part of Cuenca includes new residences, apartments and tower blocks. On the other hand, the old part is considered one of the most magnificent cities of Spain .
CUENCA FACTS
* Location = 100 miles East of Madrid
* Journey time = 2 to 3 hours from Madrid
* Car Travel = N III then to N 400
* Train Travel = Atocha Railway Station
* Bus Travel = 11 or $13 (one-way fare)
* Bus Information = telephone: 96 922 7087 or 96 922 1184
If you wish to book hotels, apartments or inquire about other information regarding Cuenca , you may visit the tourist information office at the Plaza Mayor or contact them via phone through 96 923 2119.
The Old Cuenca is a tourist attraction itself. Since it is isolated from the busy cities of Spain , it is more tranquil and you could appreciate the beauty of the province.
The streets of Cuenca are normally narrow, steep and often paved. At night, you will surely be stunned when the casa colgadas are illuminated. Around the city, you will find many rows of tall townhouses with vibrant pastel colors.
Cuenca is a city worth the road trip. However, if you are planning to explore the city without a guide, you should not neglect to stopover at the following places.
The Cathedral
Location: Plaza Mayor
Constructed during the 12 th century, this Gothic-designed cathedral was an influence of Norman style based in England . Due to this, it is the only standing Anglo-Norman cathedral in all of Spain .
During the early 20 th century, a part of the cathedral collapsed but it was soon restored.
As a national monument, the cathedral is home to various religious and art treasures. One part of the cathedral is the Museo Diocesano, which displays valuable artwork such as the collection of skillfully designed Flemish tapestries, two of El Greco s paintings on canvas and the Virgin del Sagrario statue dating back 1100s.
The Cathedral and its museum is open daily from 9:30 am to 2 pm and again around 4 to 6 pm. The museum charges a small admission fee of However, the cathedral is free of charge.
For further information about the cathedral, you may inquire at 96 922 46 26.
The Cuenca Town Hall
Location: near the Cathedral
The Cuenca Town Hall has been established since the 18 th century. If you plan to visit this old-fashioned building, just look for the flying flags located near the cathedral. Just a few walks away, you will find the Plaza Mayor.
The Town Hall is one of the best examples of classic Cuenca architecture. If you wish to relax with a great view of the city proper, there are several cafés found just a block away.
Hanging Houses
Location: above the San Pablo Bridge
The Hanging Houses of Cuenca, which date back from the 14 th century , are probably the most sough-after tourist attraction in this provincial city. Its location and architecture style will definitely surprise and astonish anyone who passes it by.
These four hanging houses, which overlook the deep narrow valley located near the St. Peter Bridge, have become Cuenca s architectural symbol.
The Castle
Location: past the Cathedral
The castle is nestled atop of a hill. It offers the best, most picturesque view of the city. You may even go to the top of the castle to capture the finest sightseeing spot.
Inside the castle, you will be welcomed by the tourist information office where you could choose which guided routes to take. Since the castle is spacious, it is best to pick the route with less walks to enjoy the views without getting too tired. You also have time to relax and have a drink or two inside the castle since it includes several old-fashioned bars.
If you are traveling by car, it will not be a problem since the castle has ample parking space.
Museo de Arte Abstracto Español
Location: North of the Plaza Mayor
Address: Calle los Canonigos
This museum is located in a hanging cliff site and is considered as one of the best museums in Spain .
The concept of the building was conceived by a renowned painter named Fernando Zobel. In 1980, he donated the building to the Juan March Foundation.
The Museo de Arte Abstracto Español is dedicated to the works of Spanish abstract painters. It is home to the masterpieces of Luis Fieto, Tapies, Millares, Eduardo Chillida, Cuixart, Sempere and Fernando Zobel.
Among the many highlights of the museum, you should not miss Rafael Canogar s Toledo and Antonio Saura s bizarre Geraldine Chaplin.
The museum is open every Tuesdays to Fridays from 11 am to 2 pm and 4 to 6 pm. During Saturday, it is open until 8 pm. However, on Sundays, it is only open from 11 am to 2:30 pm.
There is an admission fee of for adults and for students. For further inquiries, you may call their office at 96 921 29 83.
San Pablo Convent
The San Pablo Convent , which dates from the 16 th century, is separated from the old Cuenca town by the ravine. Sitting just on the edge of a rock, this convent is one amazing sight.
Today, the convent has been transformed into a four-star parador (a hotel run by the government). The hotel remarkably maintained numerous period furniture and artworks from the 16 th century. This parador is the best way to lodge in Cuenca . In addition, you are privileged with the finest views of the city.
Alarcon Village
Location: South Cuenca
The Alarcon is a well-preserved, walled medieval village. By foot, you could visit the four must-see churches of the village and the castle of Don Juan Manuel where he wrote many of his works.
Located atop of a hill, Alarcon village has been inhabited as early as prehistoric times. Its history dates back from Roman conquer into an Arab fortress and back to the domination of Alfonso VIII.
The ramparts enclosing the village are known to be the most comprehensive defense system that exists in Spain today.
Another highlight of the Alarcon village is Don Juan Manuel s Square where St. John s Church and the Town Hall are located.
Belmonte Town
The Belmonte is a monumental town with ample well-preserved architectural treasures. One of the many castles in the town was reconstructed around 1456 to 1470, by Juan Pacheco. This particular castle was an ancient castle that dated 1324 and Pacheco resided in the castle for a time.
The walled precinct s gates and ramparts, which date back from the 15 th to 16 th century, have been well preserved by the locals. The town also has a number of interesting palaces, convents and churches, one of which is the Nuestra Senora de Gracia that was built around the 17 th century.
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