Candelaria, Tenerife

Located on the eastern coast of Tenerife, Candelaria is a charming seaside town known for its rich history, religious significance, and stunning ocean views. As the spiritual heart of the Canary Islands, it is home to the revered Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria, which houses the statue of the Virgin of Candelaria, the patron saint of the Canary Islands. Every year, thousands of pilgrims and visitors gather in the town to honor the Virgin, especially during the grand festival held in August. The town’s picturesque black sand beaches, traditional Canarian architecture, and beautiful coastal promenade make it a perfect place to explore. With a vibrant local culture, fresh seafood restaurants, and stunning ocean views, Candelaria is a must-visit destination in Tenerife.

Most Famous Landmark:

Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria – A stunning seaside basilica that houses the revered statue of the Virgin of Candelaria, the patron saint of the Canary Islands.

Total Area:

About 49 km², with a mix of coastline and green hills.

Best Viewpoint:

Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias – A scenic square facing the ocean, surrounded by historic buildings and the iconic Guanches statues.

Unique Features:

A spiritual and cultural hub with a deep-rooted connection to the island’s indigenous Guanche heritage and religious traditions.

Iconic Landmarks:

Basilica de Candelaria and the nine Guanche statues, representing the ancient leaders of Tenerife’s original inhabitants.

Religious Significance:

Home to the Black Madonna (La Morenita), a revered statue of the Virgin Mary, attracting thousands of pilgrims, especially during the annual celebrations on February 2nd and August 14-15.

Coastal Beauty:

Candelaria’s black sand beaches and picturesque coastline offer breathtaking ocean views and a peaceful retreat away from the busier tourist areas.

Cultural Highlights:

The town has a rich artistic and cultural scene, with traditional Canarian crafts, museums, and a deep-rooted connection to the island’s history.

Local Cuisine:

Famous for its seafood restaurants, where you can try dishes like grilled octopus, fresh fish, and papas arrugadas with mojo sauce.

Hiking Paradise:

Surrounded by volcanic mountains and deep ravines, Candelaria is a fantastic starting point for hiking trails that explore the island’s dramatic landscapes.

Annual Celebration:

The Romería de la Virgen de Candelaria is one of the most important religious festivals in the Canary Islands, attracting visitors and locals for a grand pilgrimage and cultural festivities.

Shopping & Handicrafts:

The town is known for its local artisan shops, offering traditional Canarian pottery, woven baskets, and handmade jewelry.

Main Economic Activities:

Besides tourism, Candelaria has a strong history of fishing and agriculture, especially in banana cultivation.

Spiritual Heart of Tenerife – Candelaria is home to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, a major pilgrimage site dedicated to the patron saint of the Canary Islands.

Did you know?

Guanche Heritage – The town is deeply connected to the Guanche people, the island’s original inhabitants, who worshipped the Virgin of Candelaria as a divine figure.

Did you know?

The Mysterious Black Madonna – According to legend, the statue of the Virgin of Candelaria was discovered on the beach by Guanche shepherds long before the Spanish arrived in Tenerife.

Did you know?

A Unique Basilica by the Sea – The Basilica of Candelaria is one of the few in Spain built right by the ocean, offering stunning coastal views.

Did you know?

The Guanche Kings – In front of the basilica stand nine large bronze statues of the Guanche menceyes (kings), who ruled Tenerife before the Spanish conquest.

Did you know?

Fiesta de la Candelaria – Every August 14-15, thousands of pilgrims walk from all over Tenerife to honor the Virgin of Candelaria in a grand celebration.

Did you know?

Lava Beaches – Unlike the golden sands of southern Tenerife, Candelaria’s beaches, like Playa de la Viuda and Playa de Olegario, are known for their striking black volcanic sand.

Did you know?

A Traditional Fishing Town – Despite its religious significance, Candelaria is also a working fishing town with a vibrant harbor and fresh seafood restaurants.

Did you know?

Ancient Caves of Achbinico – Close to the basilica, these caves were once sacred sites for the Guanches, where they worshipped their gods before the Spanish conquest.

Did you know?

A Symbol of Unity – The Virgin of Candelaria is considered a unifying figure for both the indigenous Guanche culture and the Spanish Catholic traditions.