Puente de las Bolas
A historic stone drawbridge in Arrecife, Lanzarote, featuring iconic cannonball pillars and leading to Castillo de San Gabriel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour glow
Puente de las Bolas
Best Time
Golden hour glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic stone drawbridge in Arrecife, Lanzarote, featuring iconic cannonball pillars and leading to Castillo de San Gabriel.
"A curious drawbridge, and one of the two ways to reach the castle."
📸 Capture the Charm
The bridge is a photographer's dream, especially during golden hour. Don't miss capturing the 'bolas' and the castle backdrop. ,
🚶♀️ Stroll to the Castle
The bridge is the primary pedestrian route to Castillo de San Gabriel. Enjoy a leisurely walk and soak in the views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic 'Bolas'
Entrance of the bridge
Admire the two distinctive cannonballs adorning the bridge's pillars, the namesake of this historic structure.
Castillo de San Gabriel
End of the bridge
Cross the bridge to explore this 18th-century fortress, a testament to Arrecife's defensive past.
Coastal Views
Along the bridge
Enjoy picturesque vistas of Arrecife's coastline and the surrounding sea from this scenic vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Puente de las Bolas
Access and Preservation
. While it remains a beloved landmark, be mindful of its historical significance and any ongoing preservation efforts.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Charm
The bridge is a photographer's dream, especially during golden hour. Don't miss capturing the 'bolas' and the castle backdrop.,
🚶♀️ Stroll to the Castle
The bridge is the primary pedestrian route to Castillo de San Gabriel. Enjoy a leisurely walk and soak in the views.
Check for Events
Arrecife sometimes hosts street art and performances near the bridge, adding a vibrant touch.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking to reach the castle, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Charm
The bridge is a photographer's dream, especially during golden hour. Don't miss capturing the 'bolas' and the castle backdrop.,
🚶♀️ Stroll to the Castle
The bridge is the primary pedestrian route to Castillo de San Gabriel. Enjoy a leisurely walk and soak in the views.
Check for Events
Arrecife sometimes hosts street art and performances near the bridge, adding a vibrant touch.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking to reach the castle, so comfortable footwear is a must.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Puente de las Bolas to be a charming and historically significant landmark in Arrecife, offering beautiful coastal views and a picturesque walk to Castillo de San Gabriel. While many appreciate its unique design and cultural importance, some have noted its need for restoration.
"The drawbridge in Arrecife is known as the Puente de las Bolas (Bridge of the Balls). It is a historic structure that connects the mainland of Arrecife to the Castillo de San Gabriel on the small islet of Islote de los Ingleses.
Key Features of the Puente de las Bolas:
1. Historical Significance:
Built in the 18th century, the bridge served as a defensive structure to allow access to the castle, which was a key fortress protecting Arrecife from pirate attacks.
2. Design:
• The bridge is constructed of stone and features two decorative cannonballs (“bolas”) on top of pillars at its entrance, giving it its name.
• Originally, it had a drawbridge mechanism, which allowed the castle to be isolated during times of attack.
3. Cultural Importance:
The Puente de las Bolas is one of the most photographed and iconic landmarks in Arrecife, symbolizing the city’s maritime and defensive heritage.
4. Access:
Today, it is a pedestrian bridge and a popular route for visitors walking to the Castillo de San Gabriel, offering beautiful views of the coastline and surrounding area.
The Puente de las Bolas is a charming reminder of Arrecife’s history, blending functional military architecture with scenic beauty."
Matúš Komarňanský
"Beautiful bridge!
A awesome historical spot!"
Marie H
"Great place, quiet and great view over the sea"
Pessego Ratzinga
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Puente de las Bolas is easily accessible on foot within Arrecife. It connects the mainland to the Castillo de San Gabriel. Many visitors walk to it from the city center.
While there isn't direct parking on the bridge itself, there are parking areas available in Arrecife's city center, from which you can walk to the bridge.
No, Puente de las Bolas is a pedestrian bridge and is not accessible to vehicles. It's designed for walking and enjoying the scenery.
From Lanzarote Airport (ACE), you can take a taxi or a bus to Arrecife's city center, and then it's a short walk to Puente de las Bolas.
Yes, Puente de las Bolas is a very recognizable and iconic landmark in Arrecife, often featured in photos of the city.,
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking across Puente de las Bolas is free of charge. It's a public access point to the Castillo de San Gabriel.
Puente de las Bolas is always accessible as it's an outdoor public space. The adjacent Castillo de San Gabriel has its own opening hours.
There is no entrance fee for Puente de las Bolas itself. Access to the bridge is free for everyone.
Yes, the bridge is generally accessible at night, though lighting may vary. It offers a different ambiance after dark.
As a public pedestrian bridge, general public access rules apply. Be respectful of the historical structure and its surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers the most beautiful light for photos. Sunrise can also be stunning, with fewer crowds.,
Focus on the 'bolas' at the entrance, the bridge's architecture, and the views towards Castillo de San Gabriel and the coastline.
Drone regulations can be strict in populated areas and historical sites. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Try shooting from the mainland side looking towards the castle, or from the castle side looking back at the bridge. Experiment with different perspectives.,
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for most visitors. For more professional shots, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens can be beneficial.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
Built in the 18th century, it served as a defensive drawbridge to Castillo de San Gabriel, protecting Arrecife from pirate attacks.
The name comes from the two decorative cannonballs ('bolas') placed on pillars at the bridge's entrance.
The castle was a crucial fortress for Arrecife, and the bridge was its primary access point, allowing it to be isolated during attacks.
While it originally featured a drawbridge mechanism, it now functions as a fixed pedestrian bridge.
It's a symbol of Arrecife's maritime and defensive heritage, and a cherished historical landmark.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
The golden hour in the late afternoon provides the most magical light, casting a warm glow over the scene. Experiment with different angles, from wide shots of the entire scene to close-ups of the bridge's details. 🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: Puente de las Bolas
Originally, the bridge featured a drawbridge mechanism, allowing the castle to be isolated from the mainland in times of attack. This design element underscores its strategic importance in the island's defense. Today, it serves as a pedestrian walkway, inviting visitors to cross and explore the historic castle while enjoying scenic views of the coastline.,
While a beloved landmark, some recent observations suggest the bridge may be in need of restoration,
. Despite this, its charm and historical significance continue to draw visitors, making it a key point of interest in Arrecife and a symbol of the city's rich past. The bridge is a testament to the blend of functional military architecture and aesthetic appeal that characterizes historical structures. Exploring Castillo de San Gabriel
Visitors can explore the castle's ramparts and interior, which often houses exhibitions or cultural displays. The views from the castle offer a panoramic perspective of Arrecife's coastline, the harbor, and the surrounding volcanic landscape. It's a great spot to learn about Lanzarote's history and appreciate the island's defensive architecture.
Accessing the castle is straightforward via the Puente de las Bolas. While the bridge itself is free to cross, there might be an entrance fee for the castle depending on current exhibitions or events. It's a worthwhile visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying beautiful coastal scenery.
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