The town of Teguise is one of the most emblematic towns on the island of Lanzarote, located in the center of the island and surrounded by a spectacular volcanic landscape. This historic villa has long been one of the political, cultural, and economic centers of Lanzarote, and its historical and cultural heritage attracts visitors from all over the world.
The Real Villa de Teguise is one of the most important urban centers on the island of Lanzarote. Its historical legacy has been recognized and protected, being declared a historical-artistic architectural complex.
Teguise has its origins in pre-Hispanic times when the first inhabitants established a settlement that was called by the Europeans the Great Village and possibly by the local inhabitants, Acatife. During the conquest of the Canary Islands, in the 15th century, Teguise has officially named the capital of Lanzarote.
In 1536 the first Marquis of Lanzarote, Agustín de Herrera y Rojas, was born in Teguise and would lead the evacuation of the town in 1586 when it was attacked by the pirate Morato Arráez. During the attack, the population took refuge in the Cueva de los Verdes. Herrera's house is one of the oldest buildings in the archipelago and also one of the most beautiful.
In 1588, the Convent of San Francisco was built in Teguise, to fulfill the testament of Don Sancho de Herrera y de Castilla. This Franciscan monastery was built in place of the one that the Marquis of Lanzarote had ordered to be built in his orchard of Famara, in the north of the island.
In 1618, Teguise is again attacked by Barbary pirates, which leads to its destruction. Despite this, the town managed to resurface and build places of worship, such as the Santo Domingo Convent, the Hospital del Espíritu Santo and the Hermitage of Veracruz, the Hermitage of San Rafael, and San José.
In the 17th century, the Cilla de Diezmos y Primicias was built to store the surplus of agricultural production and as the residence of the maker of decimal income in favor of the clergy. In the same century, the Church of Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe was also built, which became the main church of the island and where the richest cult treasures of Lanzarote are kept.
In 1730, the eruption of the Timanfaya volcano wreaked havoc on the island, and the population of Teguise was depleted. However, the town managed to rise again and build the Gran Mareta de Teguise, to provide water to the entire island.
In the 19th century, in 1852, the island's capital was transferred to Arrecife and Teguise lost its capital status. Despite this, the town has preserved its historical and cultural heritage and has been declared a historic-artistic architectural complex due to its historical legacy.
Teguise is a beautiful city known for its historical and architectural heritage and has many places of tourist interest. It is the historic heart of the city, with cobbled streets and old buildings of Canarian architecture that make it an ideal place for lovers of history and culture.
One of the most emblematic places in Teguise is the Plaza de la Constitución, located in the heart of the city. This historic square is a popular place to relax and enjoy the city's laid-back atmosphere. Surrounded by beautiful buildings, it is a very interesting place to visit and where residents and tourists gather to enjoy the atmosphere and architecture.
Among the buildings that surround it is the church of Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, a beautiful religious building from the 16th century with a Mudejar-style tower. The church has an impressive carved and gilded wooden altarpiece that represents the life of the Virgin of Guadalupe, becoming a must-see for lovers of art and religion.
Another important building is the Spinola Palace, built in the 17th century by the Spinola family. This building is an example of traditional Canarian architecture and is impressive for its beauty and elegance.
The Spínola Palace located in front of the Plaza de San Miguel, built by D. José Feo Peraza between 1730 and 1780. It ...
In addition to the places mentioned above, Teguise has other tourist attractions, such as the ICO Palace, a historic building from the 17th century that is currently used for art exhibitions and cultural events.
The house is known as the Casa Cuartel de la Guardia Civil because the headquarters of this body was located there for m...
The Convent of San Francisco is another example of the religious architecture of the time. This 16th-century convent is a must-see for those interested in history and religion.
The convent of San Francisco, was built in the 16th century and after some reforms it has opened its doors as a Museum o...
The Santo Domingo Convent is a 17th-century convent that has been restored and now houses an art gallery and museum. It is an ideal place for those interested in the history and culture of the region.
The Santo Domingo Convent was founded in 1698, it currently houses a Contemporary Art Gallery with works by important in...
The Hermitage of Veracruz is another place of historical and religious interest that cannot be missed. This small 16th-century chapel has a beautiful Baroque altar.
The Castle of Santa Barbara is a fortress located on the mountain of Guanapay, on the outskirts of Teguise. It was built in the 16th century as protection against the attacks of the pirates that devastated the island at that time. From the castle, you can enjoy spectacular views of the island of Lanzarote, including the coast and the surrounding lava fields. It is an essential place for those interested in history and military architecture, as well as for those who love panoramic views.
It is the oldest castle of those of the archipelago. Its current appearance dates from works that were completed in 1596...
In short, Teguise is a city that offers a wide variety of places of interest for all tastes, from its historical and architectural heritage to its gastronomy and cultural events. It is an essential tourist destination for anyone visiting the beautiful island of Lanzarote.
Discover the delicious cuisine of Lanzarote in Teguise, where the quality of local products is reflected in each dish. You will be able to taste traditional Canarian cuisine or venture into innovative signature cuisine in various restaurants in the city.
Do not miss the famous Teguise Sunday market, the largest popular market in the Canary Islands. The streets and squares of the city are filled with artisans, where you can find crafts of all kinds, from ceramics to leather goods, and typical products of the island, such as cheeses, wines, and natural cosmetics made with cactus and aloe. You can also admire and buy works of art from local artists.
If you are one of those who prefer to go shopping, do not miss the opportunity to stroll through the narrow streets of Teguise and discover its unique shops, unique in Lanzarote. Throughout its streets, you will find treasure shops with young designers and artists in different disciplines: from painting and sculpture to costume jewelry and fashion, among others. Don't miss the opportunity to take home a little piece of Lanzarote!
Teguise is undoubtedly a municipality full of traditions and festivals, and each of them has its history and meaning. Carnival is undoubtedly the best-known and most popular festival on the island, and in Teguise, it is experienced especially thanks to Teguise Diabetes, a popular tradition that has lasted for centuries.
In addition to Carnival, Teguise celebrates other important festivals throughout the year, such as Día de la Cruz, Corpus Christi, Christmas Eve, or the pilgrimage in honor of the Virgen de Las Nieves. All of them have in common the active participation of residents and visitors, who are involved in the organization and development of the festivities.
On the Day of the Cross, the crosses in the historic center of the town are decorated with flowers to commemorate one of the most deeply rooted traditions of the Canary Islands. During Corpus Christi, the inhabitants of Teguise make salt rugs dyed in a thousand colors for the procession of the Blessed Sacrament.
Christmas Eve is a very crowded ceremony at the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, where the famous Rancho de Pascua or Ánimas takes place. Finally, the pilgrimage in honor of the Virgen de Las Nieves is an opportunity to pay homage to this popular devotion from the 15th century.
In summary, Teguise is an ideal destination for lovers of traditions and popular festivals, as it offers a wide variety of celebrations throughout the year. Each one of them is an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of this charming Lanzarote town.
Promoción y turismo en internet