The park was redesigned in 2014 to include the current Planetarium, which is a rare feature for a public city park in this region.
The park's name refers to the 'Monumento a la Madre' located at its center, dedicated to the maternal figure in Ecuadorian culture.
The park features a specialized sensory garden specifically designed to be inclusive for visitors with visual impairments.
Its botanical layout prioritizes native Andean plant species to maintain biodiversity within the urban grid.
Parque de la Madre, located in the heart of Cuenca, is a major urban green space featuring a prominent planetarium and a specialized garden dedicated to local flora. The park houses a statue honoring the concept of motherhood, which serves as the park's namesake. It functions as a central recreational hub for Cuenca's residents, providing open pathways, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Recent renovations have integrated modern lighting and upgraded walkways to maintain accessibility. The park grounds include various monuments and a notable artificial lagoon. It serves as a significant intersection point for residents between the modern business district and the historic center.
The elevated boardwalk area overlooking the central pond provides the most expansive view of the planetarium and the surrounding greenery.
Visit the Planetarium section early to secure a spot for scheduled educational screenings.
Use the park’s northern pathways to avoid the noise from the busy surrounding transit intersections.
Bring a light jacket as temperatures in Cuenca can drop rapidly once the sun goes behind the surrounding Andes.
Avoid visiting during heavy rain showers, as the clay-heavy soil in the unpaved sections can become extremely muddy and slippery.
Public parks in Cuenca are family-oriented; maintain low noise levels and dispose of trash in the marked bins provided.
