Escalinata Murals
Cuenca's vibrant Escalinata Murals: a dynamic staircase transformed into an open-air art gallery with stunning barranco views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Escalinata Murals
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cuenca's vibrant Escalinata Murals: a dynamic staircase transformed into an open-air art gallery with stunning barranco views.
"This is probably the most remarkably dynamic and lovely public stairway in central Cuenca."
📸 Capture the Art
The murals change, so every visit is unique! :iphone: Bring your camera for stunning urban art photos.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
With 88 steps, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the entire staircase. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Street Art Murals
Along the staircase walls
Constantly evolving murals transform the steps into an open-air art gallery, showcasing local talent and creativity.
Dama de las Hoyas Mural
Spruced-up older mural
A beautifully restored classic mural, 'Lady of Leaves,' adds historical depth to the modern art.
Barranco Views
Bottom of the steps, near the bridge
Enjoy picturesque views of the Tomebamba River and the historic barranco from the base of the stairs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Accessibility and Recent Renovations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Art
The murals change, so every visit is unique! :iphone: Bring your camera for stunning urban art photos.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
With 88 steps, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the entire staircase. :athletic_shoe:
🛍️ Browse Local Crafts
You might find local artisans selling crafts on the landings. :moneybag:
🚲 Bike/Scooter Ramps
New ramps make it easier to bring bikes and scooters up or down. :scooter:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Art
The murals change, so every visit is unique! :iphone: Bring your camera for stunning urban art photos.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
With 88 steps, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the entire staircase. :athletic_shoe:
🛍️ Browse Local Crafts
You might find local artisans selling crafts on the landings. :moneybag:
🚲 Bike/Scooter Ramps
New ramps make it easier to bring bikes and scooters up or down. :scooter:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Escalinata Murals, calling them a 'must-see' and a 'true treasure' of Cuenca. The vibrant, ever-changing street art is a major highlight, complemented by beautiful views of the barranco and the Tomebamba River. Recent renovations have improved accessibility, though some features are still being optimized.
"UPDATE March 2025 (more than 12 months from original post)
This is the most popular and probably most utilized of Cuenca’s Escalinatas (staircase) in the Barranco.
Built around the 1930s, it connects upper Central Historical District with the lower neighborhoods of the city on the other side of Rio Tomebamba.
As of March 2025, it has just undergone a big facelift at a publicized big budget.
- missing and cracked stones on the steps replaced
- new handrails installed
- new wheelchair chair lifts installed (although I have yet to see one in operation
- new walk-in ramps for bicycles installed
- there’s now additional wall mural
- the older mural “Dama de las Hoyas” (Lady of Leaves) has been spruced up.
It ends up on the Puente Mariano Moreno, which has now been renamed Puente Vivas Nos Queremos.
======
ORIGINAL REVIEW
This is probably the most remarkably dynamic and lovely public stairway in central Cuenca. There’s quite a bit of activity on the stair landings: some selling their crafts, others playing instruments.
The most remarkable is the painting on the wall. It’s different every time I come to Cuenca. It’s truly a beautiful urban art (a mural)😎😎😎.
At the bottom, by the bridge on Rio Tomemba is a view of the barranco."
A V (globetrotter)
"Newly renovated staircase. It's now accessible for wheelchairs or people with reduced mobility (although they don't specify who to call to use the service). They've also installed a system for loading and unloading bicycles and scooters, making the climb much easier. Hopefully, they'll install escalators in the next renovation."
Rubén Rodríguez
"A must-see in Cuenca!
The Francisco Sojos Steps are a true treasure of the city. Architecture, history, and natural beauty come together in this magical place.
I loved walking the steps, enjoying the sun and breeze, and taking incredible photos of the city. It's a perfect place to relax, reflect, and connect with the essence of Cuenca.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit this iconic place! 5 stars well deserved.
Rating: 5/5 stars"
Foxlider1
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Escalinata Murals are located in the Barranco area of Cuenca, connecting the upper Central Historical District to the lower neighborhoods. They are easily accessible on foot from the city center. Taxis are also readily available to drop you near the top or bottom of the stairs.
Yes, several bus routes pass through the central historical district, allowing you to walk to the Escalinata. The area is well-served by local buses, making it convenient to reach.
Parking in the historic center can be challenging. It's often easier to park in a designated lot and walk or take a short taxi ride to the murals.
You can start from either the top or the bottom. Starting from the top near the Central Historical District allows you to descend, while starting from the bottom near the Tomebamba River lets you ascend.
Yes, the murals end at the Puente Vivas Nos Queremos (formerly Puente Mariano Moreno) and are close to the Tomebamba River and Parque de la Madre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Escalinata Murals are a public space and are free to visit. You can enjoy the art and the views without any admission fee.
The murals are accessible at all hours as it's an outdoor public staircase. However, for the best experience and safety, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee. The Escalinata Murals are a vibrant part of Cuenca's public art scene and are open to everyone.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and reduced visibility of the art. Daylight hours offer the best experience.
As a public space, general rules of public conduct apply. Please be respectful of the art and other visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and crowds. The 'golden hour' before sunset can create beautiful atmospheric shots.
You can capture vibrant street art, panoramic views of the barranco, and candid shots of local life. The dynamic nature of the murals means there's always something new to photograph.
Drone usage in urban areas like Cuenca's historic center is often restricted. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
It's polite to ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially if they are selling their work.
To capture the full length of the 88 steps and the murals, try photographing from the bottom looking up, or from a slightly elevated position if available.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Walking the 88 steps and appreciating the murals can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you stop to admire the art and take photos.
The landings between sections of the stairs offer some space to rest. The recent renovations may have added more seating areas.
The steps have been renovated, with missing stones replaced and new handrails installed. The overall condition is good, making the climb safer.
Yes, children can enjoy the colorful art and the walk. However, keep a close eye on them, especially on the steps.
Expect a lively atmosphere with vibrant street art, often with local musicians or artisans present. It's a dynamic and engaging public space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents should keep a close eye on children, especially on the steps. The landings offer small breaks, and the views of the Tomebamba River at the bottom are a nice reward. It's a great spot for memorable family photos with a unique artistic backdrop.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk along the Tomebamba River or explore the nearby Parque de la Madre for a full day of free exploration. You can easily spend an hour or more here, making it a high-value experience for any traveler watching their expenses.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the Escalinata Murals
These murals transform a functional staircase into a vibrant urban gallery. Visitors often express delight at the unexpected bursts of color and intricate designs that adorn the walls. The art ranges from abstract patterns to figurative representations, making it a visually stimulating experience for all ages.
Beyond the visual appeal, the murals contribute to the cultural identity of Cuenca. They provide a platform for local artists to showcase their talent and engage the public. The Barranco area, where the murals are located, is already rich in history and architecture, and the art adds a modern, energetic dimension to this charming district.
Accessibility and Recent Upgrades
While the intention behind these upgrades is commendable, the practical implementation of the wheelchair lifts has been noted as inconsistent, with some visitors yet to see them in operation.
The renovations also extended to the artwork itself, with new wall murals added and the older 'Dama de las Hoyas' mural being refreshed. This ensures that the artistic appeal of the Escalinata remains a primary draw, complemented by improved functionality.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit