Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the main city and port of the island of Tenerife. Mild climate, picturesque promenade, rich nature, unique atmosphere and Spanish traditions - what more do you need?
Geographical location of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
To find where Santa Cruz de Tenerife is located, find the Canary Islands on the map, and then the largest island of the archipelago - this will be Tenerife. The city is located on its northeastern coast and is washed by the Atlantic Ocean.
Picturesque volcanic mountains protect the area from cold winds, so the coast is popular not only with tourists, but also with locals who come here to relax and walk. The average temperature in winter rarely drops below -18 degrees, and in summer does not exceed +30 degrees, creating the most comfortable conditions. The area of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is about 150 km².
A Brief History of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The first settlement of one of the island kingdoms of the Guanches was located in the area over 2,000 years ago. Archaeologists have discovered many proofs, including the famous mummy from San Andres. The modern town was founded in 1494 by the Spanish conquistadors and was named after the silver Holy Cross, which is kept in the National Museum of Tenerife. Thus began a new life as a fishing village.
Thanks to its favorable location, Santa Cruz de Tenerife quickly became an important port on the route between Europe, Africa and America. In different years it was repeatedly and unsuccessfully tried to capture pirates, Danes, British and, in particular, the fleet of Admiral Nelson. Three major victories over the British are reflected in the form of three leopards in the coat of arms of Tenerife.
In the XIX century, the proclaimed capital of the island began to actively develop as a commercial and resort center. Today Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a modern city with a good infrastructure, which continues to preserve its historical atmosphere, combining ancient buildings with the real avant-garde.
Demographics of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The population of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is 211,359 according to 2024 data. It is a multicultural city, where Spaniards, Latin Americans, Britons and representatives of other nations live. Tourists have a legitimate question - what language is spoken in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The official language is Spanish, but in tourist areas English and German are widespread. In some places Italian and French are understood, so there will be no problems.
Economy and Infrastructure of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The modern economy of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is based primarily on tourism, services, trade and maritime transportation. But not everyone knows that the first oil refinery in Spain was opened here.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is also the largest port of Tenerife, through which thousands of cruise liners and cargo ships pass. In addition, there are large shopping centers, restaurants and entertainment complexes. The city's transportation network includes a tramway that connects Santa Cruz de Tenerife with La Laguna, bus routes and cabs. Tenerife Norte International Airport is only 10 kilometers from the city.
The architecture is a mixture of colonial Spanish style and modern buildings. There are not too many historical sights here, but there are some real architectural masterpieces. For example, the Auditorio De Tenerife concert hall designed by Santiago Calatrava. This is an outstanding Spanish-Swiss architect and creator of many futuristic buildings in the world.
Culture and attractions of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is famous not only for its beaches, but also for its cultural events. The Tenerife Carnival is one of the largest and most colorful carnivals in the world. The city also hosts music festivals, theater performances and exhibitions of modern art.
The main square, Plaza de España, is a must-see. Very spectacular and monumental look 120-meter twin skyscrapers Torres De Santa Cruz. The Masonic Temple of Tenerife is the best example of Masonic temple art in the country. Lovers of archaeology should definitely visit the Museum of Nature and Man with exhibitions about the Guanches. There are also small interesting museums - Museum of Illusions, Carnival Museum and others.
Natural attractions and beaches
The city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is also famous for its luxurious nature. The Palmetum Botanical Garden is a unique palm grove. In the very center of the city there is a park "Garcia Sanabria". The parks La Gallega and Los Lavaderos are also worthy of attention.
Traveling around the area, be sure to visit the Teide National Park with the volcano of the same name - one of the most amazing natural places in Spain. The picturesque Masca Gorge offers stunning views, and the coastal town of Garachico has natural lava pools.
The island's most famous beach is Playa de las Teresitas, the only beach with golden sand from the Sahara. The rest of the beaches are black, volcanic beaches. Playa de Benijo is a wild beach with great views, while Playa de Anega will appeal to connoisseurs of secluded corners.
Why visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife
It's hard to find a person who doesn't know what country Santa Cruz de Tenerife is in. The resort is popular with tourists from all over the world. Magnificent beaches are combined with a rich culture and a unique Spanish atmosphere. Here you can enjoy gastronomic delights, go shopping, explore nature reserves and just relax under the warm sun.
