Santa Cruz de Tenerife's Historical Buildings (Self Guided), Santa Cruz de Tenerife
One has to admit that the Tenerife capital has preserved its historical buildings in great condition. History enthusiasts will find a wealth of sightseeing sites in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, each weaving a unique narrative of the city's cultural legacy.
Among these architectural gems is the Church of the Immaculate Conception, a testament to the island's deep-rooted Catholic tradition. Distinguished by its unique five naves, it is built over a conquistador chapel, blending Baroque and Tuscan styles, with a bell tower reminiscent of a minaret.
The Guimera Theatre, a revered cultural institution, is the oldest theater in the Canary Islands. With its neoclassical design and opulent décor, the venue has been providing stage for theatrical plays, ballets, orchestras, and congresses since its inauguration in the 19th century.
Another landmark, the Charter Palace (Palacio de Carta) exudes grandeur and historical significance. Originally built as a noble residence, it now garners recognition as the first protected building in the Canary Islands, boasting a distinctive blend of Baroque and Neoclassical influences.
The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi and the Church of San Jorge, along with the Church of San Jose and the Parish of Our Lady of Pilar, embody the spiritual essence of Santa Cruz, with their intricate architecture and religious significance providing solace and inspiration to worshipers and visitors alike.
For those interested in the city's fraternal history, the Circle of Friendship XII of January and the Masonic Temple offer glimpses into secret societies and their role in shaping Santa Cruz's cultural landscape.
Lastly, the imposing Almeida Castle and Military Museum remind us of the city's strategic importance throughout history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that chronicle its military heritage.
Today, Santa Cruz de Tenerife's historical buildings stand as guardians of its past, each offering a window into the vibrant era gone by. This self-guided walk is the chance to embark on a journey through time in this captivating corner of the Canary Islands.
Among these architectural gems is the Church of the Immaculate Conception, a testament to the island's deep-rooted Catholic tradition. Distinguished by its unique five naves, it is built over a conquistador chapel, blending Baroque and Tuscan styles, with a bell tower reminiscent of a minaret.
The Guimera Theatre, a revered cultural institution, is the oldest theater in the Canary Islands. With its neoclassical design and opulent décor, the venue has been providing stage for theatrical plays, ballets, orchestras, and congresses since its inauguration in the 19th century.
Another landmark, the Charter Palace (Palacio de Carta) exudes grandeur and historical significance. Originally built as a noble residence, it now garners recognition as the first protected building in the Canary Islands, boasting a distinctive blend of Baroque and Neoclassical influences.
The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi and the Church of San Jorge, along with the Church of San Jose and the Parish of Our Lady of Pilar, embody the spiritual essence of Santa Cruz, with their intricate architecture and religious significance providing solace and inspiration to worshipers and visitors alike.
For those interested in the city's fraternal history, the Circle of Friendship XII of January and the Masonic Temple offer glimpses into secret societies and their role in shaping Santa Cruz's cultural landscape.
Lastly, the imposing Almeida Castle and Military Museum remind us of the city's strategic importance throughout history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that chronicle its military heritage.
Today, Santa Cruz de Tenerife's historical buildings stand as guardians of its past, each offering a window into the vibrant era gone by. This self-guided walk is the chance to embark on a journey through time in this captivating corner of the Canary Islands.
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Santa Cruz de Tenerife's Historical Buildings Map
Guide Name: Santa Cruz de Tenerife's Historical Buildings
Guide Location: Spain » Santa Cruz de Tenerife (See other walking tours in Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 10
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Author: Sandra
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Spain » Santa Cruz de Tenerife (See other walking tours in Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 10
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Author: Sandra
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Parroquia de la Concepcion (Church of Immaculate Conception)
- Teatro Guimera (Guimera Theatre)
- Palacio de Carta (Charter Palace)
- Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís (Church of St. Francis of Assisi)
- Circulo de Amistad XII de Enero (Circle of Friendship XII of January)
- Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Parish of Our Lady of Pilar)
- Templo Masónico (Masonic Temple)
- Iglesia de San Jorge (Church of San Jorge)
- Iglesia de San José (Church of San Jose)
- Almeida Castle and Military Museum
1) Parroquia de la Concepcion (Church of Immaculate Conception)
The Church of the Immaculate Conception is not the Cathedral of Tenerife. That honor goes to the Cathedral of La Laguna. However, the Church of the Immaculate Conception does have five naves. No other church in the Canaries has five naves. The church is built over a chapel erected by the conquistadors when they landed on the island.
Inside the church is an image of Saint James the Apostle, patron saint of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The church holds a relic of martyred Pope Saint Clement I, donated by the Patriarch of Antioch. There is also a 15th century Gothic image of Our Lady of Consolation, patron saint of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The style of the church is both baroque and Tuscan. The bell tower, the stand out identifying marker of the church, closely resembles a minaret.
Inside the church is an image of Saint James the Apostle, patron saint of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The church holds a relic of martyred Pope Saint Clement I, donated by the Patriarch of Antioch. There is also a 15th century Gothic image of Our Lady of Consolation, patron saint of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The style of the church is both baroque and Tuscan. The bell tower, the stand out identifying marker of the church, closely resembles a minaret.
2) Teatro Guimera (Guimera Theatre)
Teatro Guimerá is the oldest theater in the Canary Islands.
Founded in the 19th century. The first known as Teatro Municipal de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, first built in 1849 by the architect Manuel de Oráa and in classical-romance style, it was first opened two years later on January 1851, it underwent several works in the interior decoration in 1888 and other occasional improvements in 1895, 1899, 1901, 1905 and in 1908 and accommodated largely in the ending of the conclusion of the original project of Oráa.
It underwend important works of modification in 1911, headed by Antonio Pintor, and it took two years to complete. These works saw a total renovation and the structute as well as the outside of the building were intact. Since 1923, after the death of Ángel Guimerá, the theatre was named in honor of a Tinerfeño dramaturgist.
The building which had been done for 150 years, the theatre provided many actors and actresses, ballets, orchestras, musical companies, congresses have taken place. Between these events it forms a part of the Canary Islands Music Festival.
Founded in the 19th century. The first known as Teatro Municipal de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, first built in 1849 by the architect Manuel de Oráa and in classical-romance style, it was first opened two years later on January 1851, it underwent several works in the interior decoration in 1888 and other occasional improvements in 1895, 1899, 1901, 1905 and in 1908 and accommodated largely in the ending of the conclusion of the original project of Oráa.
It underwend important works of modification in 1911, headed by Antonio Pintor, and it took two years to complete. These works saw a total renovation and the structute as well as the outside of the building were intact. Since 1923, after the death of Ángel Guimerá, the theatre was named in honor of a Tinerfeño dramaturgist.
The building which had been done for 150 years, the theatre provided many actors and actresses, ballets, orchestras, musical companies, congresses have taken place. Between these events it forms a part of the Canary Islands Music Festival.
Sight description based on Wikipedia.
3) Palacio de Carta (Charter Palace)
Palacio de Carta belongs to Plaza de la Candelaria in the city center. It was a significant building in the city in the 18th century. It was built in 1752 by the order of Matías Rodríguez Carta as a residence for military commanders. Then it was a government administration office and a bank headquarters. The structure represents a mixture of Baroque and Neoclassic styles. It has a couple of interior courtyards typical of the region. This 3-storey building features balconies, a façade in quarried stone, a clock on the third level and a pediment. The site of Palacio de Carta received the status of Place of Cultural Interest in 1947, and was the first protected building in the Canary Islands.
4) Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís (Church of St. Francis of Assisi)
Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís (Church of Saint Francis of Assisi) is located in Plaza del Principe in the city center. Originally the church was the Franciscan convent. Today it is a Catholic temple. The building of the church took place in the 17th and 18th centuries. It is made in Island Baroque architectural style, and has three naves. The front of the Church of San Francisco features two Corinthian capitals at the entrance with the image of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad (Our Lady of Solitude) above it.
The sanctuary has figures of La Inmaculada of the 19th century, San Francisco de Asis, Santo Domingo of the 17th century, the Master of the Ordeals, and more artifacts of religious and artistic value. Parroquia de San Francisco is one of the most important religious buildings in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The sanctuary has figures of La Inmaculada of the 19th century, San Francisco de Asis, Santo Domingo of the 17th century, the Master of the Ordeals, and more artifacts of religious and artistic value. Parroquia de San Francisco is one of the most important religious buildings in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
5) Circulo de Amistad XII de Enero (Circle of Friendship XII of January)
This grandiose white-blue edifice is located at the intersection of José Murphy and Ruiz de Padrón streets, adjacent to Plaza del Príncipe. This amazing building planned by Mariano Estanga was completed at the beginning of the 20th century. Its architectural style is Second Empire style of the Canary Islands. The facade is decorated with multiple white sandstone sculptures and small intricate decorations, as well as flags. The images are works of Edouardo Tarquis and Teodmiro Robayna. Circulo de Amistad XII de Enero hosts cultural events like plays, films, exhibitions and so on.
6) Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Parish of Our Lady of Pilar)
This parish church is located in the historical and commercial center of the city. It was conducted by missionaries headed by Father Claret. The temple was constructed in the 18th century. Its structure comprised one nave and a chapel. Two side chapels were added later. The historic meeting of the local manufacturers took place here just after Nelson’s attempt of invasion in 1797. Santa Cruz got the status of Exempt Town that led to its subsequent growth. The most known treasures of Iglesia del Pilar are the Baroque chancel table and the statue of the Virgen de las Angustias.
7) Templo Masónico (Masonic Temple)
This refined building was constructed at the turn of the 20th century for use by the Masonic lodge. Now it belongs to Town hall. The Temple is located halfway down San Lucas Street. The figures of two sphinxes guard the entrance. The facades feature Egyptian motifs symbolism, a massive triangular pediment, two etched columns near the entrance and an entrance door with carved geometric patterns. It is regarded as one of the major Masonic temples in the country.
8) Iglesia de San Jorge (Church of San Jorge)
Iglesia de San Jorge (Church of San Jorge) is situated on Calle Viera Y Clavijo, near Plaza de los Patos. The former Anglican Church was built at the end of the 19th century. Its structure features the Latin-cross plan, lancet openings, cross-gabled roof and cut-stone façade. Inside the church the traditions of the Anglican architecture are also perceptible in the design of its nave and aisles, wooden framework and multiple wooden elements, as well as stained–glass windows.
9) Iglesia de San José (Church of San Jose)
The parish church of San Jose is located in the northern part of the city. The impressive structure features arched openings, a portico entrance guarding the two-sided campanile, apartment houses in its wings and on the back side. Its architectural style can be referred to as Baroque and Tuscan. The temple possesses an important bibliographical heritage. These are folios and missals in Latin from the 18th and 19th centuries, that were used for divine services to the Council.
10) Almeida Castle and Military Museum
Regional Military Museum is located in the historic Almeida Castle completed in 1884 occupying the Almeida quarter, in the northern part of the city.
In 1854, the construction of the Fort of Almeyda was decided, and on April 21 the engineer colonel Clavijo y Plo presented his project, approved on September 22 of that year, starting the work on November 6. In 1884 the work was terminated, although by then it no longer had much military value, due to improvements in artillery techniques and population growth.
To the west it has a fort that dominates with its fires a small valley formed by the mountains that rise in its vicinity. It belongs to the Vauban system , its semicircular plan being closed by the diameter with the main facade, with two floors. To the east there is a single-storey corrugated front and a battery was built on the upper esplanade; to the north another crenellated front and three casemates with two floors; in the west three single-storey casemates and in the gorge the defensive barracks.
The Military Museum (Museo Militar) was founded in 1988 and is one of the best Canarien cartography research centers, and a great depository of armaments and objects invoking the military history of the islands, with respect to the successful defence of the city. The most referred exhibit items are the El Tigre (The Tiger) artillery-type weapon and a scale replica of the flagship Theseus. There is also an exposition dedicated to the life of Admiral Nelson, a collection of flags as well as early paintings by Canarien artists. Museum hours: Tuesday - Friday: 10 am - 3 pm; Saturday - Sunday: 10 am - 2 pm.
In 1854, the construction of the Fort of Almeyda was decided, and on April 21 the engineer colonel Clavijo y Plo presented his project, approved on September 22 of that year, starting the work on November 6. In 1884 the work was terminated, although by then it no longer had much military value, due to improvements in artillery techniques and population growth.
To the west it has a fort that dominates with its fires a small valley formed by the mountains that rise in its vicinity. It belongs to the Vauban system , its semicircular plan being closed by the diameter with the main facade, with two floors. To the east there is a single-storey corrugated front and a battery was built on the upper esplanade; to the north another crenellated front and three casemates with two floors; in the west three single-storey casemates and in the gorge the defensive barracks.
The Military Museum (Museo Militar) was founded in 1988 and is one of the best Canarien cartography research centers, and a great depository of armaments and objects invoking the military history of the islands, with respect to the successful defence of the city. The most referred exhibit items are the El Tigre (The Tiger) artillery-type weapon and a scale replica of the flagship Theseus. There is also an exposition dedicated to the life of Admiral Nelson, a collection of flags as well as early paintings by Canarien artists. Museum hours: Tuesday - Friday: 10 am - 3 pm; Saturday - Sunday: 10 am - 2 pm.
Walking Tours in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
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Santa Cruz de Tenerife Introduction Walking Tour
There is archeological evidence indicating a civilization two thousand years ago in the area where Santa Cruz stands today. The indigenous people were the Guanches. The island of Tenerife was called Anazo. The famous Mummy of San Andres is an excellent silent witness to those long-ago times. Before the Spaniards there were kingdoms.
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