November 22, 2016

Today we walked up to Fiera Libre and caught a different bus (#16) on Ave 24 de Mayo to the east end of Cuenca to look at an apartment for rent.

It is not the place for us, but on our return we got off the bus at El Centro. 






The square here  is much smaller than that of Quito, but we walked about and checked things out. 




The Cathedral of Cuenca is also a Catholic church located in the city centre.









Build in Gothic Renaissance style with three domes protruding from the roof, it was inspired by St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. 90 years in the making, it's construction was finally complete in 1975. It fits 8,000 people inside and is one of the main tourist attractions in Cuenca. 







Many people say that Cuenca looks a lot like a European city because of the Spanish colonial architecture. 










Many of the buildings in the center are beautifully decorated in colonial style with red-tiled roofs, and little flower filled wrought iron balconies.


We had a late lunch at a typical Ecuadorian restaurant - boiled corn (tasteless appetizer) soup, juice, corvina with rice and beans (not refried) and a slice of watermelon - for less than $5. for both of us. 


El Centro is a bustling area. A place where many Gringo's hang out because of the shops and restaurants. 





One of the favorite places is Totto Freddo, the  'best' ice cream shop in Cuenca. They have more flavors and styles than I can name. We had to stop there for a rum 'n raisin cone before our journey back home.


Another full day in Cuenca! There is much to explore outside of Cuenca, but for now we are happy just exploring what there is here.






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