Iglesia de la Concepción La Orotava
A magnificent 18th-century Baroque church, a National Monument in La Orotava, known for its unique facade and insightful relic tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Iglesia de la Concepción La Orotava
Best Time
Enhances understanding & appreciation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 18th-century Baroque church, a National Monument in La Orotava, known for its unique facade and insightful relic tours.
"The guided tour of the church relics is a gem, with passionate guides making it unforgettable!"
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
Don't miss the church relics tour; guides like Natalia are amazing and make the visit unforgettable!
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Some visitors found the church unexpectedly closed. Verify hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Facade
Exterior
Admire the unique curved facade and elegant stone portal, a standout example of Baroque architecture in the Canary Islands.
Church Relics Tour
Interior
Highly recommended by visitors for its informative and passionate guides, offering deep insights into the church's treasures.
Dome and Stained Glass
Interior
The large dome, featuring stained-glass windows, creates a beautiful play of light within the church's interior.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
Don't miss the church relics tour; guides like Natalia are amazing and make the visit unforgettable!
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Some visitors found the church unexpectedly closed. Verify hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
💰 Be Prepared for Entry Fee
A small fee may apply for entry or tours. Be respectful of policies, even if you disagree.
📸 Admire the Exterior
The facade and towers are architecturally stunning, even if you can't go inside. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
Don't miss the church relics tour; guides like Natalia are amazing and make the visit unforgettable!
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Some visitors found the church unexpectedly closed. Verify hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
💰 Be Prepared for Entry Fee
A small fee may apply for entry or tours. Be respectful of policies, even if you disagree.
📸 Admire the Exterior
The facade and towers are architecturally stunning, even if you can't go inside.
⛪ Respectful Demeanor
Remember it's an active place of worship. Maintain a quiet and respectful attitude.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Iglesia de la Concepción for its stunning Baroque architecture, particularly its unique facade and towers. The guided tour of church relics is a standout experience, highly recommended for its informative and passionate guides. However, some have encountered issues with unexpected closures and a perceived unwelcoming entry policy.
"Very pretty church! Don't miss it if visiting La Laguna.
We were a bit disappointed that it was closed though!"
Laura F.
"This is a definite stop if in LA Orotava, if you are like us and like old churches because of the architecture and how beautiful they look from the outside and inside. But the real gem to this church is the tour of the church relics. Our tour guide Natalia was amazing so informative and could tell she really loves her job and church. I recommend taking this tour and for the group of 4 was 16 euros and after the tour I felt the price should easily be twice that. If we ever come back I would make this stop and do this tour again. Thanks Natalia for a wonderful tour your friends from the US."
Shannon Liptow
"There has been a small church here since the Conquista at the end of the 15th century. A second church was built in the 16th century on the same site. The current building, which has been granted the category of National Monument, was built in the 18th century after the Güímar earthquakes.
The façade is one of the most interesting baroque portals of the Canary Islands. Let's pause for a moment to admire the church's exterior. Note the curved façade that divides the temple's naves and the elegant stone portal. The clock and bell towers arise in the background. Together, the façade and the towers accentuate the church's verticality, projecting a sense of roundness and elevation. A sensation of movement is added with the serpentine cornice and the curve that forms the three naves. The impressive gargoyles influenced by medieval bestiaries and Native American sculptures also accentuate the sensation of movement, unease and unrest."
Max Back
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in the heart of La Orotava, Tenerife. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Local buses also serve the area, making it a convenient stop if you're exploring the town.
Parking can be found in the vicinity, but it might be challenging during peak tourist seasons or local events. Consider arriving early or using public transport.
Yes, La Orotava is a very walkable town. The Iglesia de la Concepción is centrally located and can be easily reached on foot from places like the Casa de los Balcones.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Some visitors have reported a small entry fee of around €2. It's advisable to be prepared for this, though policies can vary.
Opening hours can be inconsistent, and some visitors have found the church closed unexpectedly. It's best to check locally or confirm with your accommodation before visiting.
While you can admire the exterior and potentially enter the main nave, a guided tour is highly recommended to see the church's relics and gain deeper insights.
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful, especially during services or if there are specific signs indicating restrictions.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
The church boasts one of the most interesting Baroque portals in the Canary Islands, featuring a curved facade, elegant stone portal, and serpentine cornice that creates a sense of movement.
Absolutely! Visitors rave about the informative and passionate guides, like Natalia, who make the tour a highlight of their visit. The price is considered very reasonable for the value.
Inside, you'll find a large dome with stained-glass windows, contributing to a beautiful interior atmosphere. The church also houses significant relics, best explored on a guided tour.
While the main areas might be accessible, older churches can have uneven floors or steps. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility if needed.
A church has stood on this site since the late 15th century. The current 18th-century building was constructed after the Güímar earthquakes and is a National Monument.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, with its striking Baroque facade and bell towers, offers excellent photo opportunities. Drone shots also capture its grandeur from above.
Drone footage can offer unique perspectives, as seen in several social media posts. However, always check local regulations regarding drone usage in protected areas.
The interior, particularly the dome and stained-glass windows, can be photogenic. Be mindful of lighting conditions and any restrictions on flash photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children to explore at their own pace. The town of La Orotava itself offers other family-friendly attractions like the Casa de los Balcones and its gardens, making the church a good cultural stop within a broader family outing.
+1🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to take the guided tour of the relics. It provides invaluable historical context and insights into the church's significance as a National Monument, tracing its origins back to the 15th century and its reconstruction after earthquakes.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
While one visitor reported a negative experience with an entry fee and judgmental staff, many find the church to be a welcoming spiritual site. Approach your visit with respect for its religious purpose.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: The Baroque Facade
Adding to the dramatic effect are the impressive gargoyles, which are influenced by medieval bestiaries and even Native American sculptures. These elements contribute to a feeling of unease and unrest, a deliberate artistic choice that makes the facade particularly memorable and distinct. It's a design that encourages visitors to pause and appreciate the detailed craftsmanship and the artistic vision behind its creation.
While some might compare it to larger European cathedrals and find it 'ordinary' in that context, its significance as a National Monument and a prime example of Canary Islands Baroque architecture is undeniable. It stands as a beautiful and historically important landmark within La Orotava.
The Unforgettable Relics Tour
The tour is described as incredibly informative, with guides who clearly love their job and the history they share. The value for money is frequently highlighted, with one visitor suggesting the price should be double what it is. It's an opportunity to learn about the church's past, its sacred objects, and the cultural context of La Orotava.
If you're interested in history, art, or simply want to understand the spiritual heart of the community, this tour is a must-do. It provides a perspective that goes far beyond admiring the architecture from the outside.
Historical Roots and Evolution
A second church was built on the same location during the 16th century, indicating the growing importance of the site. However, the current building, which has earned the prestigious designation of National Monument, is an 18th-century construction. It was rebuilt following the destructive Güímar earthquakes, a natural disaster that reshaped parts of the island and necessitated the reconstruction of many important structures.
This layered history means the church is not just a beautiful building but a repository of centuries of faith, resilience, and architectural evolution. Its construction and reconstruction reflect the historical events and challenges faced by the community in La Orotava.
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