The Church of El Sagrario, also known as the Old Cathedral of Cuenca or Catedral Vieja, stands on Mariscal Sucre in the historic centre of Cuenca, in the Azuay province of Ecuador. Its address is Mariscal Sucre, Cuenca 010101. The building dates from 1557, which makes it one of the older religious buildings in the city.
What to expect
The church shows colonial architecture and today works as both a museum and a cultural centre. Visitors come to see its religious art collections, which are displayed within the walls of the old cathedral. It is a quiet place to look at how the city's religious life was organised in its early centuries.
Because the church sits inside the historic centre of Cuenca, which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it fits naturally into a walk through the old town. Many of the surrounding streets keep their colonial character, so the visit can be combined with a stroll past other historic buildings and squares.
Planning your visit
- Location: Mariscal Sucre, in the historic centre of Cuenca, Azuay, Ecuador.
- Type of visit: A museum and cultural centre in a colonial church, suited to a slow, unhurried look at its art and architecture.
- Contact: +593-7-282-7398, if you want to check details before you go.
- Nearby: The rest of the historic centre, which lets you pair this visit with other heritage sites on foot.
If you are interested in colonial religious architecture and art, the Church of El Sagrario is a sensible stop in Cuenca. Call ahead if you need current information about access or opening arrangements.
