Tenerife, an island rich in history and vibrant culture, hosts numerous places of interest that reflect its past and present. From basilicas to markets, each site has its own story and beauty. Here I describe six emblematic places that stand out on the island:
Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria
Located in the municipality of Candelaria, the Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria is one of the main centers of religious pilgrimage in the Canary Islands. This impressive building is home to the Virgin of Candelaria, patron saint of the Canary Islands. The basilica, with its neoclassical facade and large plaza facing the sea, is a place of great spiritual and cultural importance. Every year, on August 15, thousands of pilgrims visit the basilica to honor the Virgin on her feast day.
Casa de los Balcones
Situated in La Orotava, Casa de los Balcones is famous for its traditional Canarian architecture, which includes intricate carved wooden balconies and a beautiful interior courtyard. This 17th-century building, now converted into a museum and craft shop, offers a window into the island’s colonial past, showcasing antique furniture, embroidery, and other aspects of past Canarian daily life.
Auditorio Adán Martín
Formerly known as the Auditorio de Tenerife, the Adán Martín Auditorium is a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Santiago Calatrava. Located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, its design is characterized by an impressive curved wing that seems to emerge from the ground, offering a distinctive silhouette against the sky and sea. The auditorium is not only a center for performing arts but also a symbol of Tenerife’s dynamism and modernity.
Convento de Santo Domingo
The Convent of Santo Domingo, in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, dates back to the 16th century and is a beautiful example of conventual architecture in the Canaries. Although part of the convent has been transformed into cultural and exhibition spaces, it still retains its serenity and spirituality. The adjacent church is particularly notable for its baroque altarpiece and its collection of sacred art.
Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África
The Market of Our Lady of Africa, also known as «La Recova,» in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is a vibrant place full of life, colors, and flavors. Opened in 1944, this market is the heart of the city where locals and visitors can buy fresh produce, crafts, and other goods. Its neocolonial-style architecture and lively atmosphere make it an essential meeting point to experience the local culture.
Catedral de San Cristóbal de La Laguna
The Cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, located in the historic center of La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an impressive building that blends architectural styles ranging from neoclassical to neo-Gothic. The cathedral, which is the episcopal seat of the Diocese of Tenerife, has undergone numerous renovations over the years but remains a spiritual and cultural focal point on the island.
