The religious architecture of Cuenca's city core includes several excellent examples of colonial churches and monasteries.  These have largely survived the changes brought about by nineteenth and twentieth century urban development.

Unfortunately the historic houses of Cuenca have not fared as well.  Many examples of mid to late nineteenth century "French" style houses are still evident, but examples of houses predating Ecuadorian independence in the 1820s are rare, and have been heavily altered.

Below are three examples of houses which maintain substantial colonial  portions of their layout and basic design.    All probably date to the last decades of the colonial period, from the 1780s to 1820s. 

"House 4"  is part of the  colonial working-class neighbourhood along the river's edge. 

The "Posadas House" is located west of the city core, and is probably the best-preserved example of late 18th century domestic architecture in the city.

The "Tres Patios" House is an example of an elite house in the urban core.  It was heavily altered in the 19th century.