Mencey Statues Candelaria
Majestic bronze statues of Guanche kings honoring Tenerife's indigenous past, set against the dramatic Atlantic.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden light enhances statues
Mencey Statues Candelaria
Best Time
Golden light enhances statues
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic bronze statues of Guanche kings honoring Tenerife's indigenous past, set against the dramatic Atlantic.
"An impressive and meaningful tribute to the nine Guanche kings who ruled Tenerife before the Spanish conquest."
⏳ Time Your Visit
Allow 1-2 hours for statues & basilica. Off-season may be less crowded. :clock1:
🌊 Witness the Waves
Visit during high tide for dramatic ocean spray and powerful wave views against the statues. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Nine Menceyes Statues
Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias
Majestic bronze sculptures of ancient Guanche kings, standing strong against the Atlantic. A powerful tribute to Tenerife's indigenous past.
Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria
Adjacent to the statues
An imposing and beautiful basilica, home to the revered Black Madonna. A spiritual and architectural marvel.
Atlantic Ocean Views
Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias
The statues face the vast Atlantic, offering stunning ocean vistas, especially dramatic during high tide and rough seas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Best Views & Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Time Your Visit
Allow 1-2 hours for statues & basilica. Off-season may be less crowded. :clock1:
🌊 Witness the Waves
Visit during high tide for dramatic ocean spray and powerful wave views against the statues. :ocean:
Interesting Landmarks Of Tenerife
⛪ Basilica Exploration
Step inside the beautiful basilica. Be respectful while admiring the Black Madonna replica. :church:
🚶♂️ Stroll the Plaza
Enjoy the open, sea-facing plaza. Shops and restaurants nearby offer a complete experience. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Time Your Visit
Allow 1-2 hours for statues & basilica. Off-season may be less crowded. :clock1:
🌊 Witness the Waves
Visit during high tide for dramatic ocean spray and powerful wave views against the statues. :ocean:
⛪ Basilica Exploration
Step inside the beautiful basilica. Be respectful while admiring the Black Madonna replica. :church:
🚶♂️ Stroll the Plaza
Enjoy the open, sea-facing plaza. Shops and restaurants nearby offer a complete experience. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Mencey Statues in Candelaria to be an impressive and meaningful tribute to Tenerife's indigenous history. The majestic bronze sculptures, set against the Atlantic, offer a powerful connection to the island's past. Many appreciate the adjacent Basilica and the overall atmosphere of the plaza, especially during dramatic ocean conditions or sunset.
"Visiting the Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias, in Candelaria, is to immerse yourself in the spiritual and historical heart of Tenerife. In front of the imposing Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria, the majestic statues of the nine Guanche menceyes, the ancient aboriginal kings of the island before the Castilian conquest, are lined up.
These bronze sculptures, which look at the Atlantic Ocean, represent with great strength and dignity the leaders of the different menceyatos into which the island was divided. Each figure has a different expression and posture, which allows us to imagine the personality and power that each of them could have had. It is impossible not to feel overwhelmed when walking among them and thinking about the ancestral history they represent.
The square, wide and open to the sea, has a special energy. The sound of the waves, the murmur of visitors and the proximity of the basilica create a serene and solemn atmosphere. It is a place that invites both contemplation and learning. In addition, it is surrounded by shops, restaurants and cozy streets that complete the experience.
I recommend visiting the square at sunset, when the golden light highlights the statues and the sea seems to extend to infinity. This place is not only a cultural jewel of Tenerife, but also a living tribute to the memory of the Guanche people. Unmissable for those who wish to connect with the deep history of the Canary Islands. The nine menceyes represented are:
1. Acaimo (from Tacoronte)
2. Adjona (from Abona)
3. Añaterve (from Güímar)
4. Bencomo (from Taoro, considered the most powerful)
5. Beneharo (from Anaga)
6. Pelicar (from Icode)
7. Pelinor (from Adeje)
8. Romen (from Daute)
9. Tegueste (from Tegueste)."
A. Mutis
"The Estatuas de Los Menceyes in Candelaria are an impressive and meaningful tribute to the nine Guanche kings (Menceyes) who ruled Tenerife before the Spanish conquest. These majestic bronze statues, standing along the Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias, offer a glimpse into the island’s indigenous history and culture.
We went with a guide and we found the history of the Guanchi really interesting.
A must-visit to understand Tenerife’s past and its indigenous heritage."
Violina Pesheva
"The large statues of the Guanches kings that stand at the edge of the plaza defy the wind and the powerful waves of the ocean. It is impressive to look at them both in good weather, but the best during high tide and high waves."
Tania Klymets
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mencey Statues are located in the Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias in Candelaria. If you're coming from Costa Adeje, it's an easy commute by car or public transport. Many visitors rent cars for flexibility exploring Tenerife.
While specific parking details can vary, the plaza is a central area, and street parking or nearby public parking lots are generally available. It's advisable to look for designated parking areas upon arrival.
Absolutely! Candelaria is a popular day trip destination from various parts of Tenerife, including Costa Adeje. You can easily combine a visit to the statues with exploring the basilica and the town.
From the southern tourist hubs like Costa Adeje or Los Cristianos, driving is straightforward. Alternatively, local buses connect these areas to Candelaria, offering a budget-friendly option.
Yes, many tour operators offer excursions to Candelaria, often including guided historical insights into the Guanche culture. This can enhance your understanding of the Mencey statues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or queues to see the Mencey Statues themselves. They are publicly displayed in the Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias.
The statues are outdoors and accessible at all times. The adjacent Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria has its own visiting hours, which are generally generous.
Entry to the Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria is typically free. Donations are always welcome to help maintain the sacred site.
Yes, you can visit the statues year-round. However, during peak summer months, you might encounter more visitors compared to the off-season.
The Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias is a central hub and may host local events or festivals. It's worth checking local listings if you're interested in experiencing community gatherings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the statues, the basilica, and the surrounding plaza. You can easily extend your stay if you wish to dine or shop nearby.
These statues represent the nine Guanche menceyes, the indigenous kings who ruled Tenerife before the Spanish conquest. They are a powerful symbol of the island's ancestral heritage.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be exploring the plaza. If visiting the basilica, dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
The Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias is generally flat and open, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The basilica also aims to be accessible.
Sunset offers beautiful golden light that enhances the statues. Visiting during high tide with strong waves also creates dramatic photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias and the surrounding streets in Candelaria are lined with various shops, cafes, and restaurants offering local Canarian cuisine.
You can find traditional Canarian dishes, fresh seafood, tapas, and international options. Enjoying a meal with a view of the ocean is a popular choice.
Look for local 'menu del día' (menu of the day) specials or smaller cafes for more affordable meals. Tapas can also be a cost-effective way to sample different dishes.
Many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan choices. It's always a good idea to ask your server about available options.
Candelaria offers a pleasant dining experience, especially with its seaside location. However, if you have specific culinary interests, you might find more variety in larger towns like Santa Cruz or La Laguna.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias offers great vantage points. Try framing the statues with the ocean or the basilica in the background.
Yes, you can walk around and get quite close to the statues. Be mindful of other visitors and respect the sculptures.
Sunset provides a warm, golden glow that is fantastic for photography. Visiting during high tide when waves crash near the statues also offers dramatic shots.
Photography inside the Basilica is usually permitted, but it's important to be discreet and respectful. Avoid flash photography, especially during services.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in Spain and particularly around public spaces and religious sites. It's best to check current drone laws before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it a short visit, focusing on the visual aspect of the statues and the dramatic ocean views. Bringing snacks and drinks is always a good idea, and the nearby cafes offer opportunities for a break. The historical context can be simplified for younger children, focusing on the idea of 'kings' and their island.
🏛️ History Buffs
Combine your visit with a stop at the Basilica to understand the island's subsequent religious and cultural development. Consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour that delves deeper into the history of the Guanches and their impact on the Canary Islands.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles, framing the statues against the ocean or the basilica. The open plaza allows for wide-angle shots, while closer perspectives can capture the detail and stoicism of each figure. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the sacred nature of the basilica when taking photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Guanche Legacy: Understanding the Menceyes
Learning about the Guanche people, their culture, and their eventual resistance and integration offers a deeper appreciation for these sculptures. They stand not just as art, but as powerful symbols of Tenerife's pre-Hispanic identity and the island's rich, complex history. The statues serve as a constant reminder of the island's ancestral roots, connecting present-day visitors to a distant past.
The Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria: A Spiritual Heart
The basilica itself is an impressive architectural structure, offering a serene and solemn atmosphere for contemplation. Visitors often describe the interior as beautiful and filled with details worth observing. It's a place where history, faith, and art converge, providing a peaceful counterpoint to the imposing presence of the mencey statues outside.
Experiencing the Plaza: Atmosphere and Views
For a truly dramatic spectacle, visiting during high tide and high waves is highly recommended. The statues seem to stand defiantly against the powerful ocean spray, creating a memorable and awe-inspiring scene. Sunset also transforms the plaza, casting a warm, golden light that enhances the beauty of the sculptures and the surrounding landscape. The plaza is also surrounded by shops and restaurants, making it a pleasant spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit