Founded at the beginning of the 16th century, La Orotava’s first two centuries of existence proved very prosperous. Surrounded by the best agricultural land on the island, a thriving wine production industry soon got under way and splendid mansions and religious buildings were built with the proceeds. The town went through a period of decline during the 18th before the it was reinvigorated in the 19th century thanks to cochineal and then banana production.
The town is full of well-preserved architectural treasures from throughout its history, but is perhaps most famous for its traditional 17th century balconied mansions built around a central atrium. The most famous example is the Casa de los Balcones on Calle San Francisco (open to the public).
Other attractions include the Baroque Iglesia de La Concepción – built between 1767 and 1788 on the site where the previous church had been destroyed by an earthquake – and the 17th century Iglesia de San Agustín.
Carpets of Flowers and Sand
If you’re lucky enough to visit La Orotava during Corpus Christi, then you’re in for a real treat. Since 1847, locals have been decorating their squares and streets with Alfombras de Flores y Arena (carpets of flowers and sand) to celebrate the occasion. The images produced are of incredible detail and quality and are a sight to behold.
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