The Historic Quarter of Guía de Isora

The historic quarter of Guía de Isora was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest in 2009. The town has an undeniable appeal and is set in a beautiful natural enclave. Prominent in its wonderful landscape is the Tejina mountain, which has been declared a Protected Natural Monument. Facing north, you will see the unique outline of Pico Viejo, while looking south reveals the coastline of Isora bathed in the immense Atlantic Ocean.

As you venture into the heart of the town, you will discover a surprising wealth of historical heritage. Its typical 18th century country house architecture is all around, contrasting with the more recent 19th and 20th century buildings. There are a number of 19th century religious and non-religious buildings for you to see, which are kept in very good condition. They are a great example of official, domestic and religious architecture from that period. During the first half of the 19th century the area flourished financially thanks to the money that was brought by emigrants coming back from Cuba and Venezuela.

You might like to have a splash in one of the various fountains and washing houses that the inhabitants used to use every day. You'll notice the winding and irregular layout of its streets, which is typical of these old quarters. Feel at home on a wander along Calle de Abajo or Calle de Arriba. You can also amble down the pretty streets of Calle Tagoro and Calle de la Vera. Lose yourself in its narrow alleyways and discover lovely corners in which to rest along the way.

The church of Nuestra Señora de la Luz was the first religious building in Guía de Isora, in the 16th century. It houses some true treasures inside. Discover the beauty of its altarpieces and the ancient 18th century embroidered altar cloth. Don't miss the chance to discover the hamlets of Aripe and Chirche, which have been declared Assets of Cultural Interest and will reveal a wonderful malpaís landscape. This unique countryside is full of unusual shapes left by tongues of lava and it has been sculpted over the years by nature and mankind. These hamlets date back to the Guanches and tradition is so alive here that you will feel like a time traveller. Don't miss their unique celebrations, including the wonderful Feria de la Almendra (almond fair) where locals dressed in traditional attire and, equipped with all the old utensils. re-enact the almond harvest. Tradition Day is another of the most important celebrations, during which the locals are clad in 1940s clothes and get together to perform activities from that era and to commemorate old trades.

The chapel of Tejina de Isora, located on the Los Panchos hill, is a souvenir of the times when it was built in the 16th century. A walk around the town is a chance to experience the sounds and smells of the past.