Santa Cruz de Tenerife Old Town

Centuries of history of one of the Canary Islands’ two capitals

Located in the north-east of the island of Tenerife, the capital bears the marks of the passing of time and a history spanning more than five centuries. Founded on May 3, 1494 by the Castilian, Alonso Fernández de Lugo, it soon became a key port on the trade route between Europe and the Americas. Lined with churches and historic buildings, the plazas Principe, Weyler, San Francisco and Candelaria are picturesque spots to visit.

Tenerife’s most important bay, with churches, markets and historic streets

The bay of Santa Cruz de Tenerife reflects its maritime past with historical buildings such as the Concepción Church and the Palacio de Carta. Dating from the early 20th Century is the García Sanabria Park, which borders the Toscal neighbourhood. The market of Nuestra Señora de África with its graceful colonial ambience, attracts visitors every Sunday, keen to explore its popular antiques market. Traditional bars and eateries can be found in the popular Calle de la Noria, which is also home to the headquarters of some of Tenerife’s most important groups of carnival street musicians.

Historical heritage

Historic site

Tipo

Historic quarter

Public transport

Restoration

Shop/shopping

Touristic bus

Touristic info

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Go to web site

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Sustainability

Never leave waste of any type lying around, including cigarette butts. Leftover food leads to a proliferation of rats and wild cats, which pose a serious threat to the fauna.
Do not throw any waste or other objects into the sea.
Respect the animals. Do not bother them or feed them. If you see an injured specimen, you can call the emergency number: 112. Do not pick flowers or plants.
Do not pick up or take away stones or any other item from the natural environment. And do not move them to pile them up into sadly famous 'towers'.
Respect and look after the area's historic and cultural heritage, along with the different items of public furniture (information panels, railings, seats, lighting, etc.).