If you were thinking of doing a dynamic getaway but don’t know where, we have the solution to your big question. Cuenca will be the ideal destination whether you are a nature lover or a lover of culture and good food. Given such variety, it is not surprising that it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997. If you have chosen this wonderful city full of history as your destination, we are sure that it will not leave you indifferent. That’s why today we want to guide you and accompany you in planning your trip so that you don’t overlook anything.
Cuenca is a city in Castilla la Mancha which is located between the rivers Júcar and Huécar. Although it is known to have existed since the Palaeolithic Age, what is preserved to the present day belongs to the Arab conquest and its subsequent Christian reconquest. Now that you know this, it will be much easier for you to understand why they are so beautiful. If you decide to stop on arrival to appreciate the view, you will see Cuenca perched on rocks as if by magic. This city has an almost completely hilly terrain, with slopes and cobblestone floors, so if you plan to walk around it you should wear comfortable shoes.
What to see in Cuenca?
San Pablo Bridge
First of all, you can’t miss the San Pablo Suspension Bridge. It is currently made of beams that are similar to those of the Eiffel Tower. This reconstruction was made in 1902 due to the collapse of the previous and original one. The old bridge, which was made of stone, was built to save the natural gorge of the Huécar River. From here you will be able to see the famous “hanging houses” from a unique panoramic perspective. Not to mention the view of the river from there! Keep in mind that we are talking about a bridge with a maximum height of 60 meters and a landscape full of green areas and small houses in the background that will make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale.
Hanging Houses
As we have already told you, the San Pablo Bridge and the hanging houses go hand in hand. Whether you’ve walked the bridge all the way to the end, or you’ve decided to enter the city first, reaching the houses is the highlight, the icing on the cake. And in case you were wondering… Yes, they are hanging houses and not hanging houses. If you decide to visit them, we advise you to take into account this small difference to guide you. Although there is little left of this popular architectural marvel, it is well worth a visit. They are also the headquarters of the Spanish Museum of Abstract Art and admission is free.
Old Town
Once you have reached this point, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the old part of the city: the main square and its monuments. The most important is the Cathedral of Santa Maria and San Julian, built after the Catholic reconquest. Gothic style that still remains despite the reconstructions and collapses it has experienced. The main square also contains the Town Hall, a building built on three arches under which you can stroll. From here you can reach the Calle Alfonso VIII and take a walk full of color and vivacity (the name of this street is due to the conqueror of the city in 1177.) If you are interested in seeing more of the architecture that the Muslims left in Cuenca , you should visit the Mangana Tower. Although its history is not completely known, we assume that it was a defensive enclave from which threats could be sighted.
Devil’s Window
In case your expectation of this getaway was not only to visit Cuenca, but also its closest surroundings to be able to go hiking, count on this option that we offer. About the ventano del diablo there are still many legends alive, some say that it was the place where the devil entertained himself throwing people into the river Júcar, others say that it was the place where a tragic triangular love story happened. The truth is that the wonderful and ardently charming thing is its height and the view of the city (green grounds, the river).
Enchanted City
If you’ve decided to come to Devil’s Window and you’re willing to let your imagination run free as you stroll around, visit the Enchanted City. It has its origins 90 million years ago, when the sea covered this city. When it was removed, it gave rise to the current Natural Site of National Interest, declared in 1929. You will make a tour through huge limestone rocks that are supported by its great strength and have taken shape thanks to erosion. The path is not much more than 3 km long and runs through a pine forest.
In addition, if you are interested in gastronomy, it will be a good time to try the local products and typical dishes such as Morteruelo or Zarajos. This is the end of our journey together, but the beginning of your personal experience. We hope you decide to visit Cuenca and our recommended places. Do you want to continue reading about CUENCA? More info HERE.
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