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Viewpoint · Cuenca, Azuay
Río Tomebamba e El Barranco
The river that cuts through Cuenca and the Barranco cliff, with houses hanging over the bank, Calle Larga up above, the promenade at the water's edge and the Puente Roto.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Río Tomebamba e El Barranco
The Tomebamba is the main one of Cuenca's four rivers and runs along the southern edge of the historic center. Between the center and the river there is a cliff, El Barranco, where the houses of Calle Larga hang over the bank with balconies, terraces and gardens at several levels. Seen from the opposite bank, it is one of the city's most familiar images.
At the water's edge, a tree-lined promenade with willows follows the river, with benches and lawns where residents walk and picnic. Stairways, such as the Bajada del Padrón, link the bank to Calle Larga, the street of bars, restaurants, cafés, guesthouses and museums atop the cliff.
The Puente Roto is what remains of an early-20th-century bridge swept away by a flood; today it is a viewpoint and a venue for fairs and events. Nearby are the Museo Remigio Crespo Toral and, a little further on, the Museo Pumapungo.
The walk is calm and flat along the bank, with climbs on the stairways.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours.
Best time
In the late afternoon, with low light on the Barranco houses, and at night, with Calle Larga lively.
How to get there
Calle Larga is a block south of Parque Calderón; the stairways descend from there to the riverbank. Puente Roto is near where Calle Larga meets Avenida Huayna Cápac.
Tip
Cross the river by one of the bridges and view the Barranco from the opposite bank. Finish on Calle Larga, with dinner or a coffee.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Río Tomebamba e El Barranco
What is El Barranco?
The escarpment between the center and the Tomebamba River, with houses hanging over the bank.
What is the Puente Roto?
The remaining section of a bridge swept away by a flood, now a viewpoint and fairground.
Is Calle Larga good at night?
Yes — it has bars, restaurants and cafés, lively at night, especially on weekends.