Travel Guide Cuenca
Find an accommodation
Advertising
Capital of the province of Azuay, Cuenca is today the third most important city of the country (behind Guayaquil and Quito), with several universities and an intense commercial, cultural and artistic activity, which has always characterized it. The city was founded in 1557 by Gil Ramirez Dávalos, governor of Quito, by order of the Viceroy of Peru, Don Andrés de Mendoza. The peculiarity of its soil and the origins of its interbreeding have given its inhabitants a singular identity that they have been able to preserve and cultivate over the years. Originally, Cuenca was the Inca city of Tomebamba, considered the cradle of King Huayna Capac, itself built on what was Guapdondelig (which means "plain as big as the sky"), city of the Cañari people. The Incas who came from the south called it Paucabamba, flowery valley. At the time of the colonization, Spanish and Italian craftsmen installed there schools of art (architecture, sculpture and painting), formerly famous in all Latin America. They are at the origin of the artistic treasures of the city.
What to visit Cuenca?
Advertising
Weather at the moment
Advertising
Organize your trip with our partners Cuenca
Transportation
Book your plane tickets
Car Rental
Boat rental
Accommodation & stays
Find a hotel
Holiday rental
Find your campsite
Tailor-made trip
Immersion travel
Services / On site
Activities & visits
Find a doctor
Cuenca travel inspiration
Find unique Stay Offers with our Partners
Pictures and images Cuenca
Other destinations nearby Cuenca
25 km away