La Laguna Cathedral
Canarias
The Cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, located in the historic center of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, is a significant Catholic cathedral dedicated to the Virgin of Los Remedios, patron saint of the diocese and the island. Constructed between 1904 and 1915 to replace an earlier 16th-century church, it features a neoclassical facade inspired by the Cathedral of Pamplona and a prominent dome that dominates the cityscape. The cathedral blends architectural styles, including neo-Gothic elements visible in its high ribbed vaults and ambulatory. It houses important religious relics, including the remains of Alonso Fernández de Lugo, the island's conqueror and city founder. The cathedral serves as the episcopal seat for the Diocese of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, which encompasses Tenerife and neighboring islands. It is also the diocesan shrine of Saint José de Anchieta, a native son and missionary founder of Brazilian cities. The cathedral is notable for its construction using concrete and polypropylene fibers, marking it as one of Spain's "last generation" cathedrals alongside others like Madrid's Almudena Cathedral. Its cultural and religious significance is heightened by its location within a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its active role as a parish and Marian sanctuary.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the cathedral during weekdays to avoid crowds and to consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially for guided tours and access to the bell tower, which offers panoramic city views. Audio guides are available in Spanish and English, enhancing the visitor experience. The cathedral offers an interactive children's audio guide with puzzles and secrets to discover. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students. The best time to visit is during the morning hours when lighting enhances the interior's neo-Gothic vaults and baroque altarpiece dedicated to the Virgin of Los Remedios.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral contains the remains of Alonso Fernández de Lugo, the conqueror of Tenerife and founder of San Cristóbal de La Laguna.
- •Saint José de Anchieta, baptized in this church, was a founder of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro in Brazil.
- •It is one of the few cathedrals in Spain constructed with concrete and polypropylene fibers, marking it as a 'last generation' cathedral.
- •The cathedral's neoclassical facade is inspired by the Cathedral of Pamplona.
- •The city of La Laguna, including the cathedral, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.
History
The site originally hosted a hermitage built in 1511 by Alonso Fernández de Lugo, on land believed to be an ancient Guanche necropolis and sacred pilgrimage area.
In 1515, the hermitage was replaced by a larger Mudéjar-style church dedicated to the Virgin of Los Remedios, which became a parish that same year.
The church was expanded in the 18th century, including a new transept and enlarged chapels.
Despite early attempts, it was not until 1819 that the church was elevated to cathedral status, following a papal bull dividing the Diocese of Canarias.
The current cathedral building was constructed between 1904 and 1915, incorporating neoclassical and neo-Gothic styles, with a notable neoclassical facade inspired by the Cathedral of Pamplona.
Recent restorations between 2009 and 2014 introduced modern construction materials such as polypropylene fibers for the dome, blending historical and contemporary elements.
Place Guide
Neoclassical Facade19th century
The striking stone facade of the cathedral, built in the 19th century, is inspired by the Cathedral of Pamplona and serves as a monumental entrance to the sacred space.
Neo-Gothic InteriorEarly 20th century
The main body of the cathedral features high ribbed vaults and an ambulatory in neo-Gothic style, constructed primarily with concrete.
Dome with Polypropylene Fibers21st century
The dome prominently crowns the cathedral and was reconstructed using modern polypropylene fiber materials during restoration works between 2009 and 2014, ensuring durability and visual prominence.
Tomb of Alonso Fernández de Lugo16th century
The cathedral houses the tomb of Alonso Fernández de Lugo, the Spanish conquistador who founded the city and conquered Tenerife.
Baroque Altarpiece of the Virgin of Los RemediosUnknown
An exquisite baroque altarpiece dedicated to the Virgin of Los Remedios, patroness of the city and diocese, is a focal point of devotion within the cathedral.
Bell Tower Access
Visitors can access the bell tower through guided tours, offering panoramic views of the historic city of La Laguna and insights into the tower's history.
Contact
Phone: 637 23 60 55
