Sidcay

Orientation

Sidcay lies in the Andean countryside north of Cuenca, about 30 minutes from the historic centre by road. It is a dispersed rural parish rather than a compact tourist town: cultivated plots, homes and small neighbourhoods spread beyond the parish centre.

The centre, with its square and the Iglesia de la Virgen de la Merced, is the practical starting point. It is also the place to get a sense of the parish’s scale before heading out on local roads.

Toquilla-straw weaving

Sidcay is part of the working landscape behind Ecuador’s traditional toquilla-straw hats. Weaving here is commonly done at home alongside farming, animal care and domestic work. The woven form is often only one stage in a longer production chain; finishing and sales may happen elsewhere in Cuenca.

That distinction matters when shopping. A hat is the result of skilled handwork, but it is not automatically a direct sale from the person who wove it. Some Sidcay makers sell finished pieces themselves at Cuenca’s Rotary market.

Respect the setting: these are homes and workplaces, not open workshops. Do not enter private property or expect demonstrations without a prior arrangement.

Parish centre and countryside

Start at the church and square, then use the surrounding lanes to see the agricultural setting that frames the settlement. The parish is known for short-cycle farming, small livestock and local craft traditions, including toquilla work, tin craft and woodwork.

For a longer outing, Sidcay’s hills and paths include the Cerro del Chonta and Corona Loma areas, while the Tullunihtuco caves are among the parish’s named natural sites. These are rural routes, not an urban park network: footwear with grip, water and a daytime start are sensible.

Timing and practical notes

Sidcay is most useful as a half-day or relaxed day trip from Cuenca. Go early if you plan to walk, as the terrain is highland and the parish is spread out.

September is the principal festival period. Parish anniversary events take place that month, and the main Virgen de la Merced celebration is held around 24 September, with religious and community events. Expect the centre to be livelier then, and keep access around ceremonies clear.

There is no need to treat Sidcay as a retail stop. Its value is in understanding how a living rural craft economy fits into the wider Cuenca hat trade.