Reopening of one of Cuenca’s oldest streets will provide access to historic buildings, create an artisans’ market

Cuenca is making plans to reopen one of city’s oldest and most historic streets. Actually an alley way, Calle Santa Ana, which runs between the cathedral and Raymipampa restaurant on Calle Benigno Malo, has been bricked shut for decades. 

City, church and civic leaders envision Santa Ana as an artisans’ market but also accessway to several colonial buildings that are not currently open the public. The project would include restoration of the San Luis seminary which has been shuttered for years. The city committed $200,000 to prepare for the project and appointed a committee to make archeological and design studies.

The Cuenca Archdiocese of Cuenca, which owns the property, will be involved in planning and restoration. Mayor Marcelo Cabrera thanked the Archdiocese for its willingness to open the historic street and participate in the project. “This area is one of the historic treasurers of Cuenca and we’re very happy that it will be available, once again, for Cuencanos to enjoy.”

Vincent Cisneros, Archbishop of Cuenca, echoed Cabrera’s sentiment. "From our standponit, we will do everything we can to facilitate the reopening of Calle Santa Ana," he said. "We feel great graditude to the people of Cuenca and look forward to returning this treasure to the city," he added. 

In addition repair work and the restoration of San Luis, the project will restore building facades and install museum lighting. Work could begin on the project, once studies are complete, in less than a year, according to Cabrera. 

Photo caption: Calle Santa Ana, an alley way between the cathedral and Raymipampa Restaurant, has been closed off for years; photo credit: El Mercurio.