Old Cathedral (El Sagrario) - Image 1
1 / 10

Old Cathedral El Sagrario

4.7
·633 reviews·Cuenca, Ecuador

A 16th-century colonial gem, now a museum showcasing religious art and historical depths, including crypts and a pipe organ.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Old Cathedral (El Sagrario) - Image 1

Old Cathedral El Sagrario

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 16th-century colonial gem, now a museum showcasing religious art and historical depths, including crypts and a pipe organ.

4.7
(633 reviews)

"Don't miss this wonderful tour; it's often overlooked but offers incredible historical insights."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Take the Guided Tour

Highly recommended for fascinating history and insights into Cuenca. Tip your guide!

🎟️ Affordable Entry Fee

A small fee grants access to this historical gem and its treasures.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Religious Artwork Collection

Religious Artwork Collection

Admire stunning paintings and carvings that tell stories of faith and history. Many displays include English translations.

Reddit
Crypt Exploration

Crypt Exploration

Descend into the ancient crypts, once the resting place for church members since the late 1500s.

Reddit
Spiral Staircase to the Organ

Spiral Staircase to the Organ

Climb the spiral staircase for a unique perspective and a close-up view of the impressive pipe organ.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit

While the Old Cathedral El Sagrario is a historical gem, it can get busy. Visiting during off-peak hours, especially weekday mornings, can offer a more serene experience for contemplation and exploring the religious artwork without the crowds. TikTok

Embrace the History and Art

This 16th-century cathedral, now a museum, is rich with religious artwork and historical significance. Consider taking the guided tour to unlock deeper insights into its past and the city's heritage. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good for guided tours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ponme mirando pa Cuenca todas las veces que quieras 💖
@tazarte_
91.6K likes • 583.7K views

🎯 Take the Guided Tour

Highly recommended for fascinating history and insights into Cuenca. Tip your guide! Reddit

🎟️ Affordable Entry Fee

A small fee grants access to this historical gem and its treasures. Reddit

Mágico lugar 🥹🍃 #ecuador #turismoecuador #cuenca #cuencaecuador #ecuador🇪🇨 #quito #uio #nortedequito #centrodequito #surdequito
@soyalan_ec
90.5K likes • 1.4M views
I’ve never visited a more magical city ✨ 10000000/10 RECOMMEND visiting Cuenca 💕 #cuenca #travel #ecuador #holidays #holidaycountdown #christmas #traveltiktok #traveltok #vintagechristmas #arquitecture #citycentre
@arymoreno_
57.8K likes • 361.3K views

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Crypts

Discover the history below ground in the ancient, now empty, crypts. Reddit

📸 Capture the Architecture

The colonial architecture is a photographer's dream. TikTok

Conociendo el #ecuador🇪🇨 1 parte : Cuenca 6lugares que no puedes perderte en Cuenca📍🚘📍 #fypシ #cuenca_ecuador #paratii #cuenca_ecuador🇪🇨❤ #ecuadortravel #turismo #allyouneedisecuador #cuencacity #riveraec #airbnbcuenca #viral #cyzbca #xyzcba #miradorelcalvario #miradorturi #hosteriadoschorreras
@edimapache
50.8K likes • 1.1M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Take the Guided Tour

Highly recommended for fascinating history and insights into Cuenca. Tip your guide! Reddit

🎟️ Affordable Entry Fee

A small fee grants access to this historical gem and its treasures. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Crypts

Discover the history below ground in the ancient, now empty, crypts. Reddit

📸 Capture the Architecture

The colonial architecture is a photographer's dream. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(633 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Old Cathedral El Sagrario for its historical significance, beautiful religious artwork, and the unique experience of exploring its crypts and pipe organ. The affordable entry fee and the option for insightful guided tours are frequently highlighted as major positives, making it a highly recommended stop in Cuenca. Some note that it's often overlooked in favor of the newer cathedral, but many find its historical depth and intimate atmosphere particularly rewarding.

"Great place to come and contemplate Cuenca's history and worship. There are some beautiful paintings and carvings, and most displays have English translations. You can also walk down into two crypts, now empty."

Eileen Weed

"Excellent place to explore and learn a out the Old cathedral. Walking inside was an experience that's worth the visit. You can also climb the stairs to the top of the observation level. Family friendly atmosphere with a wonderful view of the Park and El Centro. Definitely recommend while in Cuenca Ecuador."

Michael E Hattaway

"There were almost a dozen artists working on redoing paintings, columns, etc. A beautiful church in Cuenca worth the $1 entry."

Dan Pieloch

What People Like

Rich history and artwork
Crypt exploration
Affordable guided tours

What People Dislike

Often overlooked

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Cathedral El Sagrario is located in the historic center of Cuenca, Ecuador. It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying in the city center. Taxis and local buses are also readily available options to reach the cathedral. TikTok+1

Parking in the historic center of Cuenca can be challenging due to narrow streets and pedestrian zones. It's often best to rely on public transport, taxis, or to park a bit further away and walk. TikTok

Absolutely! The Old Cathedral is centrally located and can be easily combined with visits to the New Cathedral, Parque Calderón, and other historical sites in Cuenca's UNESCO World Heritage center. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around $1 to $3 USD, making it an accessible attraction for most travelers. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daytime hours. It's advisable to check locally or online for the most up-to-date information before your visit. TikTok

For general entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to take a specific guided tour or attend a concert, it's wise to inquire about booking options. Reddit

While it has historical significance and serves as a museum of religious artwork, it is often used for special events and concerts, and can be visited for contemplation. TikTokReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find a collection of beautiful religious paintings, carvings, and historical artifacts. You can also explore the crypts and climb to the observation level. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. They offer in-depth historical context and fascinating details about the cathedral and Cuenca. Reddit

Access to certain areas, like the crypts and the upper levels with the pipe organ, may involve stairs. The main nave is generally accessible. Reddit

It's believed that some foundation stones were taken from nearby Cañari/Incan ruins, highlighting the layered history of the site. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always good practice to be respectful and check for any specific signage regarding photo policies. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior colonial architecture, the intricate details of the artwork inside, the view from the observation level, and the spiral staircase leading to the organ are all excellent photo opportunities. TikTokReddit

Natural light can be found through the windows, especially during the day. However, some areas might be dimly lit, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be helpful. TikTok

For commercial photography or professional shoots, it's best to contact the cathedral administration in advance to inquire about permits and regulations. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Cathedral El Sagrario can be an engaging visit for families. The visual appeal of the artwork and the mystery of the crypts can capture children's imaginations. Reddit The affordable entry fee makes it a budget-friendly option for a cultural outing. Consider focusing on the most visually striking pieces and the story of the crypts to keep younger visitors interested. The guided tour might be more suitable for older children who can appreciate the historical narratives. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This cathedral is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers. With an entry fee typically around $1-$3, it offers significant historical and artistic value for a minimal cost. Reddit It's a great way to experience Cuenca's heritage without a large financial outlay. Combining a visit here with a walk around Parque Calderón and exploring the city center makes for a rich, low-cost day. TikTok

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by history, the Old Cathedral El Sagrario is a must-visit. Its 16th-century origins, potential links to pre-Hispanic ruins, and role in the city's development offer a deep dive into Cuenca's past. Reddit The guided tour is essential for uncovering the nuanced historical details and understanding its significance within the broader context of Ecuadorian history. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Cuenca's Colonial Past

The Old Cathedral El Sagrario stands as a testament to Cuenca's rich colonial history, dating back to the 16th century. Unlike its more prominent neighbor, the New Cathedral, El Sagrario offers a more intimate encounter with the past. Many believe its foundation stones were repurposed from ancient Cañari/Incan ruins, underscoring the deep historical layers of this region. Reddit Visiting here is like stepping back in time, offering a unique perspective on the city's evolution. TikTok

Today, the cathedral functions as a museum, showcasing a significant collection of religious artwork, including paintings and carvings that have been meticulously preserved or are undergoing restoration. TikTokReddit The experience is enhanced by displays that often include English translations, making the history accessible to a wider audience. The guided tours are particularly valuable, providing context not just about the cathedral's history but also about Cuenca itself, revealing details that might otherwise be missed. Reddit

Exploring the Depths: Crypts and Organ Lofts

Beyond the main nave, the Old Cathedral El Sagrario offers unique exploration opportunities. Visitors can descend into the crypts, which served as burial sites for church members starting in the late 1500s. Reddit While now empty, these spaces evoke a sense of solemn history and offer a tangible connection to generations past. The atmosphere is quiet and contemplative, providing a different facet of the cathedral's story. Reddit

For those who enjoy a climb, the spiral staircase leads to an impressive vantage point. Here, you can get up close to the magnificent pipe organ, a marvel of historical craftsmanship. Reddit This elevated perspective also offers a unique view of the cathedral's interior architecture. The combination of exploring the subterranean crypts and ascending to the organ loft provides a comprehensive experience of the cathedral's structure and its historical uses. Reddit

You may also like