Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria

Top choice


This imposing domed church dates from 1959 and sits at the edge of the town centre, overlooking a rocky beach and flanked by a plaza where nine huge statues of Guanche warriors stand guard. The church has an enthralling interior as well as a palpable air of reverence, focused on the adoration of the Virgin of Candelaria. With its ornate decoration, the interior of the dome is an architectural highlight.

During the official festivities for the Virgen de la Candelaria celebration on 15 August, the plaza fills with pilgrims and partygoers from all over the Canary Islands. If you visit during a Mass, you will probably find it is standing room only.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Centro Alfarero de Candelaria

0.08 MILES

Just past the basilica, steps lead up the right-hand side to the signposted Centro Alfarero de Candelaria, a small and very informative pottery museum,…

2. Pirámides de Güímar

3.41 MILES

These six much-restored pyramid ruins made from lava stone explore an intriguing question: could the Canarios have had contact with America before…

4. Casa del Vino la Baranda

9.11 MILES

This museum, located in a traditional Canarian country house in El Sauzal, is devoted to wine and its production and also offers wine tasting for a…

5. Observatorio del Teide

9.32 MILES

One of the best places in the northern hemisphere to stargaze is the Observatorio del Teide, just off the TF24 highway between La Laguna and the El…

6. Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos

9.33 MILES

If you enjoy pushing buttons and musing on the forces of nature, you'll have fun at this museum, which introduces key scientific concepts in an engaging…

8. Iglesia de San Agustín

9.71 MILES

The Iglesia de San Agustín, with its carved wooden ceiling, sits on the northeastern side of Plaza de la Constitución. The magnificent carved altarpiece…