Santa Cruz: Self-guided Old Town Walk Sights and Specials

Tucked away in the heart of Santa Cruz, the Old Town beckons visitors to explore its captivating blend of history and culture. Beginning at the stunning Plaza De España, this self-guided walk promises an immersive journey through landmarks like the Nuestra Señora De La Concepción Church and the vibrant Mercado De Nuestra Señora De África. Whether you’re drawn to art, architecture, or local traditions, Santa Cruz’s Old Town offers a multifaceted experience that’s sure to leave you intrigued and eager to discover more.

Key Points

• Explore the stunning neoclassical architecture and iconic Fuente de los Leones at the heart of Santa Cruz’s Old Town, Plaza De España.
• Visit the 16th-century Nuestra Señora De La Concepción Church, showcasing Gothic and Baroque elements and the mausoleum of Josè de Anchieta.
• Discover the TEA Cultural Center, a hub for contemporary art exhibitions, live performances, and educational opportunities.
• Immerse in the vibrant culture and local specialties at the Mercado De Nuestra Señora De África, a bustling marketplace.
• Reflect on the area’s history at the poignant war memorials and the remnants of Castillo de San Cristóbal.

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Plaza De España

The Plaza de España is the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s Old Town. This expansive square features stunning neoclassical architecture, including the elegant Casino and Town Hall buildings.

Visitors can admire the impressive monument to the Canary Islands’ first king, Alonso Fernández de Lugo.

The plaza’s centerpiece is the iconic Fuente de los Leones, a grand ornamental fountain surrounded by sculpted lion statues.

The iconic Fuente de los Leones, a grand ornamental fountain surrounded by sculpted lion statues, stands as the plaza’s centerpiece.

This lively public space hosts cultural events and serves as a gathering place for locals and travelers alike.

With its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere, the Plaza de España is a must-see on any Santa Cruz walking tour.

Nuestra Señora De La Concepción Church

Nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s Old Town, Nuestra Señora de la Concepción Church stands as a testament to the city’s rich religious heritage.

This stunning 16th-century cathedral features:

• Impressive Gothic and Baroque architectural elements

• Intricate stained-glass windows that flood the interior with natural light

• Ornate altars and religious artifacts that showcase the church’s devotional history

• The mausoleum of renowned Spanish naval officer Josè de Anchieta, who played a pivotal role in the city’s development.

Visitors can explore the church’s serene ambiance and admire its well-preserved historical significance during the self-guided Old Town Walk.

TEA Cultural Center

Situated in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s vibrant Old Town, the TEA Cultural Center stands as a beacon of the city’s thriving artistic and cultural scene.

This modern, multifunctional complex houses exhibition halls, performance spaces, and educational facilities. Visitors can explore thought-provoking contemporary art exhibitions, attend live music and dance performances, or participate in workshops and classes.

The TEA’s sleek, angular architecture complements its diverse programming, making it a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts exploring the historic quarter. Its strategic location near other notable landmarks offers an enriching cultural experience during the self-guided Old Town walk.

Mercado De Nuestra Señora De África

As visitors explore the historic Old Town of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, they’ll come across the vibrant Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, a bustling marketplace that has long been the heart of the city’s commercial and social life.

This market offers:

• A diverse array of local produce, artisanal goods, and traditional Canarian specialties

• Lively atmosphere with vendors’ calls and the chatter of locals and travelers

• Architectural charm, with its ornate, colonial-style buildings

• Opportunities to take in the city’s vibrant culture and daily activities

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War Memorials

Moving beyond the vibrant Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, the historic Old Town of Santa Cruz de Tenerife also features a number of poignant war memorials.

Monuments commemorate the region’s involvement in conflicts, including the Spanish Civil War and World War II. Visitors can explore the majestic Monumento a los Caídos, a striking memorial dedicated to fallen soldiers.

Another highlight is the Monumento a la Reconciliación, a symbolic structure promoting peace and unity. These solemn sites offer opportunities to reflect on the area’s rich history and the sacrifices made by its people.

Casinos

The Old Town of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is also home to several historic casinos, which were once popular gathering spots for the island’s elite.

These casinos offered gambling, entertainment, and a social scene for the wealthy and influential.

Some notable casinos include:

• Casino de Tenerife – Established in 1913, this grand casino building features an impressive neoclassical design.

• Casino Taoro – Opened in 1921, it was a prestigious venue for gaming, socializing, and cultural events.

• Casino Taoro Palace – A lavish casino complex that hosted high-stakes gambling and extravagant parties.

• Casino Marineda – This casino, opened in the early 20th century, catered to the city’s elite.

Castillo Remains

Scattered across the historic Old Town of Santa Cruz de Tenerife are the remnants of the Castillo de San Cristóbal, a once-imposing fortress that played a crucial role in the city’s defense.

These castillo remains offer a glimpse into the island’s tumultuous past. Visitors can explore the crumbling walls and foundations, imagining the battles and sieges that once took place here.

While much of the original structure has been lost to time, the Castillo’s legacy lives on, serving as a poignant reminder of Santa Cruz’s rich history and resilience in the face of adversity.

Interactive Tasks and Puzzles

How do the interactive tasks and puzzles enhance the self-guided Old Town Walk experience in Santa Cruz de Tenerife?

By incorporating engaging tasks and riddles, the tour encourages active participation and discovery. Travelers can:

• Solve puzzles that reveal historical facts about landmarks

• Complete scavenger hunt-style challenges to locate specific elements in the urban landscape

• Engage in interactive storytelling that brings the city’s past to life

• Test their observation skills through visual quizzes about the surroundings

These interactive elements transform the walk into an immersive, brain-stimulating adventure, ensuring travelers stay captivated throughout the 2.5-hour self-guided tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Accessible Is the Tour for Visitors With Disabilities?

While accessibility details aren’t explicitly stated, the self-guided nature and use of a smartphone may present challenges for some visitors with disabilities. It’s advisable to inquire about specific accessibility accommodations before booking.

Can the Tour Be Completed in Multiple Sessions Over Different Days?

Yes, the tour can be completed in multiple sessions over different days. The self-guided nature of the experience allows visitors to explore the Old Town at their own pace and revisit sites as needed.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

Yes, there are special offers available for this tour. Guests can save 10% by booking as a group of 4 or more. Plus, local residents receive a 15% discount on the tour price.

Can the Audio Narration Be Accessed in Multiple Languages?

The audio narration for the self-guided tour can be accessed in multiple languages. Participants can select their preferred language from the available options during the initial setup of the tour on their smartphone.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour for Specific Interests?

The tour doesn’t offer customization options, but it’s designed for self-paced exploration, allowing travelers to focus on their specific interests at each stop. The audio narration is only available in one language.

The Sum Up

Santa Cruz’s Old Town offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and contemporary art. Visitors can explore the neoclassical Plaza De España, the historic Nuestra Señora De La Concepción Church, and the vibrant Mercado De Nuestra Señora De África. The self-guided walk also includes thought-provoking war memorials and the remains of Castillo de San Cristóbal, providing a well-rounded experience of the city’s heritage and artistic offerings.

You can check availability for your dates here: