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Cuenca, city (1990 pop. 43,209), capital of Cuenca prov., E central Spain, in Castile–La Mancha, at the confluence of the Huecar and JUcar 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), called Curretaria, extends onto the Huecar plain. The city is known for the spectacular sight of its houses projected above the abyss of the Huecar 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. It has a notable Gothic cathedral (begun 13th cent.). Nearby is the Ciudad Encantada [enchanted city], a fantastic labyrinth of eroded rocks.
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