Cuenca is a beautiful city, especially its Colonial area. As soon as you enter the main town square, Parque Abdón Calderón, you will encounter two different types of churches.

The first one is the Old Cathedral, better known as El Sagrario (recently renovated), built on an Inca structure. Some of the Inca blocks can still be seen. This cathedral was built in 1557, when modern Cuenca was founded. The second cathedral is the Cathedral de la Inmaculada. This one was built in 1885 and has a famous crowned image of the Virgin. Originally, this cathedral was supposed to be the largest one in South America. Unfortunately, due to some miscalculations it could not be built the way it was expected to be. However, The Cathedral's beautiful altar and its Modern stained glass inside makes this visit an unforgettable experience.

El Turi church is located south of the city on Av. Fray Vicente Solano, some 50 minutes walk from the city. The church offers a magnificent Mirador where you can go and enjoy the wonderful views of the city. An orphanage is connected to the church.

There are many other churches which you can visit, such as: San Francisco, San Blas, Santo Domingo and El Cenáculo. As a matter of security, some churches are open at irregular schedules and only for services. Also, El Carmen de la Asunción (near La Inmaculada) a 17th Century church is worth a visit.

Plaza Cívica, is a market where you can buy clothes, pottery, and several other local crafts such as baskets (Unique in Cuenca). But, the best place for basketwork is the suburb of San Joaquín, on the west side, near the tennis club.

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