Old Cathedral of Cuenca, Southeast Oriente Travel Guide

The Old Cathedral of Cuenca, or Iglesia del Sagrario, stands as a significant historical and architectural landmark in the heart of Cuenca, Ecuador. Construction began in 1557, shortly after the Spanish founding of Cuenca, with stones sourced from the ruins of Tomebamba, an ancient Inca city. During the colonial era, it served as the primary place of worship for the Spanish settlers, while the indigenous population was relegated to worshiping outside or elsewhere.The church features a basilica structure typical of the colonial era, comprising three naves and a central altar. The walls are adorned with light pastel colors, and a collection of life-size carved figures depicts Jesus and the apostles at the Last Supper. A unique bellows organ, installed in 1739, is located above the entrance, though it is no longer in service. The tower that stands today was designed by Colonel Francisco Eugenio Tamariz in 1867.In 1787, the church's status was elevated to a cathedral with the establishment of the bishopric in Cuenca. However, as the city's population grew, the Old Cathedral became too small, leading to the construction of the New Cathedral. After the New Cathedral was consecrated in 1880, the Old Cathedral transitioned into a museum following restoration efforts that began in 1999. Today, the museum displays a variety of altars and religious art. A glass window in the floor allows visitors to view the catacombs below, where skulls and bones are carefully arranged. The Old Cathedral is also remembered for its use by the French Geodesic Expedition in 1739, who used its spire as a reference point to establish the arc of the earth.