The cathedral's foundation stones were recycled from the demolished Inca city of Tomebamba.
It contains a 17th-century pipe organ that is one of the oldest in South America.
The floor tiles are arranged in a pattern that reflects the influence of Mudejar (Spanish-Islamic) design.
The wooden pulpit is carved in the traditional Quito School style, known for its intricate detailing.
The museum collection includes a clock mechanism from the 18th century that once governed the city's timekeeping.
The altarpieces were crafted by local artisans using wood and gold leaf, a signature of colonial Ecuadorian religious art.
The Old Cathedral of Cuenca, known locally as El Sagrario, was founded in 1557 shortly after the city's establishment. Construction began using stones taken from the ruins of the nearby Inca site of Pumapungo. The building served as the primary cathedral for the city until the larger New Cathedral was completed in the late 19th century. It currently operates as the Museum of Religious Art, housing a significant collection of colonial-era statues, paintings, and liturgical objects. The interior features a rare pipe organ dating back to the 18th century. The site displays original mud-brick and stone masonry techniques common to early colonial Ecuador. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site property situated on the main city plaza. The building underwent extensive restoration in the early 2000s to stabilize its structure.
From the center of the nave looking toward the main altar to capture the contrast between the dark woodwork and gold-leaf details.
Walk through the side galleries to see the collection of colonial-era religious vestments.
Look up at the wooden ceiling beams to observe the original construction techniques used in the 1500s.
Ask the museum staff about the historical pipe organ, as they sometimes provide insights into its restoration.
Do not confuse the entrance with the New Cathedral, which is the much larger, blue-domed building across the square.
Maintain a quiet tone; modest attire covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
