Cuenca Cathedral

The Cuenca Cathedral is absolutely breathtaking. Built in the late 12th century (work began around 1182), and largely completed by 1257, it’s one of the earliest Gothic cathedrals in Spain. What you see today is a stunning result of centuries of craftsmanship and architectural evolution — a real piece of living history. The amount of detail, color, and artistry inside is extraordinary. The altarpiece alone feels like stepping into another world: every panel draws you in, telling stories carved and painted by hands from long ago. Walking inside, you feel connected to hundreds of years of human devotion and talent. The cathedral manages to be dramatic and solemn, yet peaceful. During my stay in Cuenca — I lodged at Hotel Rural Casona de Torres — and having that charming hotel as home base made visiting the cathedral even more special. Between the historic atmosphere of the hotel and the timeless grandeur of the cathedral, my time in Cuenca felt truly magical. If you visit Cuenca, don’t miss this cathedral — it’s not just beautiful, it’s a journey through centuries in stone and stained glass.

The interior suprised me, the stained glass works of the cathedral were amazing and we could see many reflections inside! The ceilings are very cool pieces of artwork, and there are many details to see. Visited in October 2025, tickets were 5.50 euros for general public and 4.50 for carnet joven holders.

Cuenca Cathedral is the city’s crown jewel and Spain’s first Gothic cathedral outside of Catalonia, which makes it a bit of a show-off in architectural terms. Construction began in 1196 after the Reconquista, blending Romanesque roots with early Gothic ambitions because apparently Cuenca wanted to compete with Europe’s big players without losing its own cliffside charm. The façade is austere but elegant, featuring sculpted portals, pointed arches, and a slightly intimidating rose window that quietly says, “This is serious religion and you will respect it.” Inside, expect high vaulted ceilings, chapels filled with centuries-old art, and a surprisingly serene atmosphere despite the occasional tourist selfie frenzy. Historically, the cathedral has seen wars, fires, and renovations, yet it remains central to Cuenca’s religious and cultural identity. Its location near the Huécar gorge adds drama to every view, as if the city deliberately posed its cathedral on a cliff to impress visitors and keep invaders slightly nervous. Come for the Gothic architecture, stay for the history and religious art, leave with a sense that Cuenca’s devotion, stonework, and cliffside ambition were never subtle.

One of the most beautiful churches I have ever seen. The entry is 5 euros, which I think is totally worth it, and you can also pay 2 euros more to go up to the inside balcony, where you get an amazing view of the main square. For the experience and the amount of beautiful pictures you can take, it feels like a fair price. You can truly spend many hours here because each room has so much personality and makes you feel like you’re walking through a masterpiece. They also have an outside patio where you can see the famous hanging houses of Cuenca, the bridge, and even the statue of the Virgin Mary in the distance. The only downside is that when I tried to pay the 2 extra euros for the balcony, they didn’t accept card, so make sure to bring some cash with you. Also, the shops around the cathedral usually don’t accept card unless you spend at least 5 euros, which was a bit annoying. Other than that, it was an amazing experience, and honestly, if you’re in Madrid, the trip to Cuenca is completely worth it just for this cathedral.

Amazing cathedral with many little side chapels all with a different history. You have to pay to get in but it's probably one of the most interesting cathedrals we've visited in Spain. Pay the extra 1.5 euros to climb the tower and get a balcony view into the cathedral and out into the square

Wow wow wow, I have never been in a Cathedral that has given me so much joy. I love stained glass so this was an absolute revelation. the stained glass in this cathedral is nothing short of spectacular. the original plain glass windows were replaced by the most spectacular modernist stained glass that elevated this cathedral into something quite exceptional. They also had an exhibition go religious iconography that was simply breathtaking. this Cathedral is definitely a must visit if you are in the city

The brightest spot in Cuenca for me. Nice vies from the top to the Plaza Mayor and from the backyard to the mountains.

Beyond spectacular. One of the most beautiful and special churches I have ever seen. Highly recommend, even with the small entrance fee. So worth it!