Cuenca

The Ancient heart of the city of Cuenca

Built by the Moors on a defensive position in the heart of the Caliphate of Cordoba, Cuenca is a very well preserved fortified medieval city. Conquered by the Castilians in the 12th century, it became a royal town and bishopric rich with major buildings, such as Spain's first Gothic cathedral, and the famous casas colgadas (hanging houses), suspended from sheer cliffs overlooking the Huécar River.

Admirably making the most of its location, the city crowns the magnificent countryside surrounding it.

Inscribed: 1996

Justification:

- The Old Town of Cuenca is an outstanding example of the medieval fortress town that has preserved its original townscape remarkably intact along with many excellent examples of religious and secular architecture from the 12th to 18th centuries. It is also exceptional because the walled town blends into and enhances the fine rural and natural landscape within which it is situated.