The Historic Quarter of Tegueste

Nestled in a spectacular natural basin, Tegueste boasts a wealth of natural wonders housing unique species of wildlife. Its historic quarter has been declared a Historic Site and you will find its magnetic charm difficult to resist. The municipality seems to have originated in the area known as El Llano, given that its topography was ideal for a settlement thanks largely to its easy access and abundance of water. This is where the first chapel was built, after which the rest of the municipality slowly took shape around it.

This small chapel that represented the founding stone for the rest of the town is known as the church of San Marcos. Take the opportunity to have a look inside and discover its old style and imposing collection of religious figures. Beside it is the unassuming square of Plaza de la Arañita. Whilst on your tour, don't miss the Casa del Prebendado Pacheco, which became Tegueste's first public school thanks to the owner's encouragement. In 1843, after much hard work by the locals and by Mr Prebendado Pacheco himself, work finally began on building the Old Town Hall, which has since been used as a school, a grain exchange and even a mortuary. Today, it houses the peace court.

Wander along the fabulous path of Camino de los Laureles that passes through remnants of laurel forests and from which you will be able to discover the ancient plant species of the macaronesian heathland, known locally as the monteverde, making you journey back in time to when there were no roads on the Island. These paths joined Tenerife's villages together as if they were part of the countryside. Beside this path you can take in the lovely sight of Casa de los Tacoronte. This house was built as an old stately home and still seems to tell the love story between the Baron de Chasserieu's daughter and Eduardo de Tacoronte, the man who the town was named after.

Not far away, the solemn Casa de la Audiencia will help you to imagine the tension that reigned in the town when the plague hit the Island and the leaders of the local government gathered there to discuss how to find a solution to the tragedy.

Journey across the legendary Puente de Palo bridge, which was built to keep the municipality connected to the outside world when the rains filled the surrounding ravines. The bridge has had to be rebuilt several times owing to the sheer force of the waters flowing beneath it.

You can also take a break in the small square of La Placeta, a crossroads that has always been a meeting point for the locals. The square features a late 19th century cross and a water fountain that is over a hundred years old.

You can also visit the estate of Finca de los Zamorano, which covers an expanse of 15 acres of vineyards, orchards and organic vegetable gardens. It also boasts a winepress, a threshing floor and an area used for a local sport in which cattle are made to drag heavy objects across the ground. Of course, the estate also features the house of Casa de los Zamorano, a traditional old building that is a fine example of the area's typical houses. It is now an interpretation centre where visitors will discover how farming, learning and sport can happily coexist in one place.