Cuenca, Medieval municipality in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
Cuenca is a municipality in Castilla-La Mancha, built at 946 meters above sea level (3104 feet) between the deep gorges of the Júcar and Huécar rivers. Medieval buildings rise along the rocky cliffs, forming a tight web of narrow streets and steep stairways.
Muslim rulers founded the fortress of Kunka in 714, which grew into a center for textile production. Alfonso VIII of Castile conquered the town in 1177 and began construction of the cathedral, which continued until 1270.
The Hanging Houses remain among the most visited landmarks, as their wooden balconies seem to float above the abyss. Visitors can explore the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art inside one of these buildings, where medieval architecture meets modern art.
The high-speed train connects the town with Madrid in less than an hour, stopping at Fernando Zobel station around six kilometers (about 3.7 miles) from the old center. A regular bus service runs from the station to the historic quarter, where footpaths involve stairs and slopes.
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Grace, built between 1182 and 1270, displays Anglo-Norman elements such as pointed arches and ribbed vaults. This style is rare in Spain and gives the interior an unusual appearance.
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