Hanging Houses of Cuenca facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hanging Houses |
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Casas Colgadas
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A view of the houses from the San Pablo bridge.
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| General information | |
| Address | Calle Canónigos |
| Town or city | Cuenca |
| Country | Spain |
| Current tenants | Spanish Museum of Abstract Art |
Imagine seeing a house built right on the edge of a cliff! In the city of Cuenca, Spain, you can see this amazing sight. The Casas Colgadas, which is Spanish for Hanging Houses, are a famous group of buildings that look like they are floating over a deep river valley. They are one of the most incredible landmarks in Spain.
What Are the Hanging Houses?
The Hanging Houses are a special type of building found in the old city of Cuenca. They are built directly onto the side of a steep cliff that drops down to the Huécar river. This deep, narrow valley is called a ravine.
Long ago, many houses like these lined the edge of the city. Today, only a small number are left. The most famous ones are a group of three houses known for their beautiful wooden balconies that hang out over the cliff. It's this feature that gives them their name.
A Look Back in Time
No one knows for sure when the first Hanging Houses were built, but we have records that prove they existed in the 15th century, over 500 years ago!
Over the centuries, the houses have been repaired and updated many times to keep them safe and strong. The last major renovation happened in the 1920s. These repairs have helped preserve the houses so people can still see them today.
What Are the Houses Used For?
Throughout their long history, the Hanging Houses have had many different uses.
- They were once private homes for families.
- They served as council houses, which are buildings used by the local government.
- One of the houses was once a mesón, which is a traditional Spanish type of restaurant.
Today, the Hanging Houses are home to the Museo de Arte Abstracto Español (Spanish Museum of Abstract Art). This means you can go inside these historic buildings to see amazing modern paintings and sculptures.
See also
In Spanish: Casas Colgadas para niños
