Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción: Cuenca's Architectural Jewel

The Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción, often called the New Cathedral, stands as a testament to Cuenca's rich history and architectural grandeur. Construction began in 1885, initiated by Bishop Remigio Estévez de Toral, and spanned nearly a century, finally concluding in 1975. Designed by German architect Juan Bautista Stiehle, the cathedral blends Romanesque Revival, Neo-Gothic, Baroque Revival, and Byzantine Revival styles, drawing inspiration from the Basilica of Saint Peter in Rome. The cathedral's most iconic features are its three giant domes, covered in eye-catching blue and white glazed tiles imported from Czechia, which have become a defining symbol of Cuenca. The facade, crafted from alabaster and local marble, leads into an interior adorned with intricate altars, vibrant stained glass windows by Spanish artist Guillermo Larrazábal, and a floor of pink marble from Carrara, Italy. The towers, though initially planned to be taller, were truncated due to a miscalculation by the architect, adding a unique characteristic to the skyline. Inside, the cathedral can accommodate up to 9,000 people, a testament to its scale and importance in a city that, at the time of its construction, had only 10,000 residents. Visitors can explore the crypt beneath the central nave, which houses the remains of notable Cuenca citizens. The Altar of the Santísimo, a marble structure of colonial origin, is another highlight. The cathedral not only serves as a place of worship but also as a cultural hub, hosting concerts and community events. Its location on Parque Calderón makes it a central point in Cuenca's historic center, inviting exploration of the surrounding Plaza de las Flores and other historic buildings.