Cuenca, city , capital of Cuenca
prov., E central Spain, in Castile–La Mancha, at the confluence of
the Huécar and Júcar rivers, c.3,000 ft (910 m) above sea
level. This historic town retains its medieval character in the narrow
streets, clustered houses, and bridges; the modern, industrial section
(timber trade, furniture, pottery, paper, leather) extends onto the
Huécar plain. The city is known for the spectacular sight of its
houses projected above the abyss of the Huécar river. It was taken
(1177) from the Moors by Alfonso VIII of Castile. Cuenca was badly damaged
in the Peninsular War
and the Second Carlist War (see Carlists). It has a notable Gothic
cathedral (begun 12th cent.) and museums of abstract art, natural history,
and science. Nearby is the Ciudad Encantada [enchanted city], a fantastic
labyrinth of eroded rocks.
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