The hanging houses are probably what Cuenca is best known for. These houses, which overhang the gorge of the Huécar River, were built to maximize living space for Cuenca’s growing population in the Middle Ages. In addition to these impressive houses, you’ll find other charming houses throughout the old town that feature colorful facades as well as medieval stone structures that truly transport you back in time.

Are you wondering if people actually live in these houses? The answer is no, because they now house an elegant art museum, the Museo de Arte Abstracto Español. The best thing about this museum is the fact that the art is displayed near the windows from which you can see the river gorge, creating an impressive image.

The location and scenic value of the city are definitely among the main reasons to visit Cuenca. And as you would expect, hiking trails are a great way to enjoy the city’s scenery. You can get some truly breathtaking views of the Huécar River gorge from the Mirador Barrio del Castillo, an amazing enclave near the ruins of the ancient castle.

Want more? The subway tunnels under the old town of Cuenca have served several purposes throughout the history of the city. One example: they were used as an air raid shelter during the Spanish Civil War. Due to its location between Madrid and Valencia, it suffered quite severe air raids during the war. The people of Cuenca would hide in the tunnels during these attacks. The tour takes you through the tunnels and creates a theatrical simulation of what it would have been like to be there during an air raid. The tour is both a chilling thrill and a provocative history lesson.

Don’t you know Cuenca yet? Let a certified guide show you as you could never have imagined.