The island of Tenerife is the largest of the 7 Canary Islands and has many things to offer whether you are a tourist visiting for the first time or have even visited more than once. The Canary Islands are considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world with 5,000,000 people visiting each year. However, for you to understand the culture, you need to take a quick look at history which will help you understand what helped shape it and how life has developed to this day.
Tenerife was founded by the Guanches who were the first settlers in the year 200 BC and then in 1493 the Spanish conquered it under the orders of the King. Once the Spanish gained control of the island, there were many challenges, so there was a push towards further development and integration into the Spanish culture. The industrial revolution brought many changes, creating opportunities for the island for much-needed jobs and income. The cultivation of the popular sugar cane crop for export was increased and this greatly increased opportunities for the locals.
Like Spain, Tenerife is predominantly Roman Catholic, however the practice of many other types of religions is encouraged, giving it a reputation for being very tolerant. Since the rise in immigration and tourism, there has been a rise in Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, and Evangelicalism. Tenerife does not have a history of many religious wars which symbolizes the peaceful structure of society on the island.
The island of Tenerife is also known for the annual festivals that are held throughout the island at certain times of the year.
Many tours and excursions are offered to visitors that showcase the island’s historical and cultural sites. This gives visitors an insight into the way of life and the background of how the island became what it is today. The island has many popular places to offer such as sandy beaches, restaurants, festivals, golf courses that are among some of the best in the world. The nightlife is very lively and there is plenty to choose from when it comes to entertainment.
Many tourists like to visit the many historical museums, including the well-known Museum of Nature and Man, which is located in the capital of Santa Cruz. The museum consists of exhibits that show the riches of the Canary Islands and the history of the first settlers who inhabited the island. It is definitely on the list of must-see places in Tenerife with several other museums and galleries in the same vicinity and most within walking distance of each other.
It is highly recommended to explore destination guides so you get an idea of what the island has to offer before planning your trip and map out what you want your visit to cover.
There is so much to do on the island and being an island all places are just a short drive away. The island has diverse sites from the Teide volcano to the Masca hiking trail that takes you through an incredible gorge and fantastic scenery.
The people are incredibly friendly and risking a visit to the island will be the best decision you make.
