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The 'hanging houses' of Cuenca

You've probably heard of the hanging gardens of Babylon, but have you heard of the hanging houses of Cuenca...?

About 140km south east of Madrid and North West of Valencia lies the historic city of Cuenca.  Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its wealth of monuments, it is best known for its nationally famous “casas colgadas” or hanging houses.

Originally built in the 14^th century, these four houses literally hang on the edge of a cliff, overlooking the river Huécar gorge.  In fact the name of the city might originate from the Latin “conca” meaning “river basin” which refers to the canyon made by the rivers Júcar and Huécar.

The walled city incorporates a variety of styles and periods, including the 12^th century cathedral, convents from the 16^th to 18^th centuries, the ruins of a Moorish castle, the ancient Kunka fortress and mediaeval cobbled streets.

30km outside the city, the Cuenca Mountains are home to a series of bizarrely shaped rock formations known as the Enchanted City.  Wind and water have eroded the huge limestone rocks into shapes which resemble animals, objects and human figures.

Unusual and historic

Besides the unusual and historic, the province now has another string to its bow.  According to the latest Spanish House Price Index from Kyero.com, Cuenca is now the least expensive Spanish province in which to buy property. With the average property price being a mere €41,000, 84% below the national average of €250,000, Cuenca certainly offers value for money.

Martin Dell, MD of Kyero.com, comments, “Cuenca province is ideal for those looking for Spain's best kept secret. The region has been virtually untouched by tourism and still retains its authentic Spanish charm. Properties available here are mostly in need of renovation giving the purchasers the ideal opportunity to create their perfect home in the sun.

Kyero.com is receiving more and more enquiries for properties in Cuenca and expect the bargain prices not to last for long, especially as tourists are being attracted to the Villar de Olalla Golf Club, 5km outside Cuenca city, and the new casino and leisure complex due to open in 2008 in Castilla-La Mancha.”

For more information, visit http://www.kyero.com