La Laguna
The city of San Cristóbal de la Laguna is located very close to Santa Cruz de Tenerife at 545 m. above sea level. It is the second most populated city and was the first city founded in Tenerife after its conquest (July 1496). It is called San Cristóbal because he is the patron saint of travellers. Due to its location, it has a microclimate which means that the temperature is lower than in other places on the island.
In 1999 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage City. This designation has led to a complete rehabilitation of the city, with the renovation of its buildings and the pedestrianisation of its main streets. As a result, La Laguna has now become a place of great charm, a reference point for cultural life and leisure on the island.
It is a pleasure to stroll through its streets, wherever you look it is a delight for the eyes, our recommendation is to see:
- San Cristóbal Cathedral, the most representative building of La Laguna. Inside it lie the remains of the conqueror and founder of the city, Alonso Fernández de Lugo.
- Palacio Salazar, is one of the most beautiful buildings in La Laguna and Tenerife. Its dark stone façade is decorated with gargoyles and coats of arms, which were restored after a serious fire destroyed the building in 2006.
- Museum of History and Archaeology, today the most important museum of Tenerife's history, is housed in the majestic Casa Lercaro.
- Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción, the church of La Laguna is also the oldest church in Tenerife. It was built in the early 16th century in the Baroque style.
- Plaza del Adelantado, the most central and frequented square in the historic centre of La Laguna, named after the island's conqueror.
- Stately homes, the historical importance of La Laguna can be seen in the palaces and stately homes scattered around the city.
Although it is a tourist area, you can eat for very affordable prices, and you can find a wide variety of restaurants and types of cuisine. The best thing to do is to go first thing in the morning and then eat in one of the local restaurants. Of course you can buy all kinds of things in the many shops there.
