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Santa Cruz de Tenerife
—  Municipality  —
View of Santa Cruz. At the left the city symbol, the Auditorio de Tenerife.
Flag Coat of arms
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Location in the Canary Islands
Coordinates: 28°28′N 16°15′W / 28.467°N 16.25°W / 28.467; -16.25Coordinates: 28°28′N 16°15′W / 28.467°N 16.25°W / 28.467; -16.25
Country	Spain
Autonomous community	Canary Islands
Province	Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Island	Tenerife
Founded	3 May 1494, founded as Santa Cruz de Santiago de Tenerife
Government
- Alcalde	Miguel Zerolo Aguilar (2007) (CC)
Area
- Total	150.56 km2 (58.1 sq mi)
Elevation	4 m (13 ft)
Population (2008)
- Total	221,956
- Density	1,474.2/km2 (3,818.2/sq mi)
- Demonym	Santacrucero, ra Chicharrero, ra
Time zone	WET
- Summer (DST)	WEST (UTC)
Postal code	38001-38010
Official language(s)	Spanish
Website	Official website

Santa Cruz de Tenerife (commonly known as Santa Cruz) is the capital (jointly with Las Palmas), second-most populous city of the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands and the 21st largest city in Spain, with a population of 222.417 in 2009. It is, depending on sources, the 13th, 14th, or 16th-most populous metropolitan area in Spain, with the population 404,913,^[1] 481,592^[2] or 581,947.^[3] Santa Cruz is the second largest city and metropolitan area of the European Union outside Europe. The cities of Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal de La Laguna and urban are physically linked, so that together have a population of over 382,331 inhabitants. Almost half (45.9%) of the inhabitants of the island and about 1/5 (18.35%) of all inhabitants of the Canary Islands living in these two cities. What makes them the largest urban area in the Canary Islands (independent of municipal lines) of the European Union outside Europe.^[4][5][6] Santa Cruz de Tenerife is also the capital of the island of Tenerife (most populated of archipelago and Spain)^[7][8] and capital of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Located in northeast of the Spanish island of Tenerife, about 210 kilometres (130 mi) off the northwestern coast of the Africa within the Atlantic Ocean. Between the 1833 territorial division of Spain and 1927 Santa Cruz de Tenerife was the sole capital of the Canary Islands, until in 1927 a decree ordered that the capital of the Canary Islands be shared, as it remains as at present.^[9][10] Therefore during this time was the cultural, political and economic Canary Islands, these powers now shared with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.^[11] Santa Cruz is the busiest port in the Canary Islands and second Spain (after Algeciras), so it is a major Atlantic port cities and has the largest cruise port in Spain and the like.^[12] The port is of great importance, is the communications hub between Europe, Africa and Americas, and she and cruise ships arriving from all nationalities. The city is the nerve center on domestic and inter-communications in Canary Islands.^[13]

San Juan Baptist Castle (aka "Castillo Negro").

Ruins of the Castle of San Cristóbal, underground of the Plaza de España.

The city is home to the Parliament of the Canary Islands, the Canarian Ministry of Presidency (shared in a four-year term with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria), one half of the ministries and boards of the Canarian Government, (the other half being located in Gran Canaria), the Tenerife Provincial Courts and two courts of the Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands. There are several facilities of the La Laguna University in Santa Cruz, including the Fine Arts School and the Naval Sciences Faculty. Its harbour is one of Spain's busiest; it comprises three sectors. It is important for commercial and passenger traffic, as well as for being a major stopover for cruisers en route from Europe to the Caribbean. Actually has the largest port in the Canary Islands and throughout Spain in the second operation.^[12][12][14] Also has one of the world's largest carnivals. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife now aspires to become a World Heritage Site, and is the most important of Spain.^[15]

The main landmarks of the city include the Auditorio de Tenerife (Auditorium of Tenerife), the Santa Cruz Towers (Torres de Santa Cruz) and Church Counterfoil of the Concepcion. Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts the first headquarters of the Center UNESCO in the Canaries. The city is a melting pot of diverse cultures that give it a cosmopolitan character. The largest distinct communities have immigrants from: Peru, Bolivia, Hindu and Arab etc.

Etymology

The area where Santa Cruz currently lies belonged to Menceyato Guanche Anaga, which was the most easterly of the island. The city that is now Santa Cruz had a few names throughout its history: Añazo (name Guanche), Puerto de Santiago Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Santa Cruz de Tenerife (current), which means; "holy cross in the island Tenerife". In memory of when the city was founded stuck a Christian cross in the place is now the center of town.

History

The area on which now stands the city and the municipality of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has been the subject of human occupation since time Guanches, approximately 2000 years ago, as attested by the archaeological sites found. The area was known to the Guanches, the first inhabitants of the island, as Añazo. Later, it became one of the most important ports of the Atlantic and the Canary Islands, a status it retains to this day. This former fishermen's village rose to prominence after a Volcano destroyed the port of Garachico in the XVIII century. Santa Cruz became the major port on the Island. It first won its independence from La Laguna and, in the 19th century, was awarded the status of Capital of the Canary Islands province by King Ferdinand VII.

Between 1833 and 1927 Santa Cruz de Tenerife was the sole capital of the Canary Islands, until in 1927 a decree ordered that the capital of the Canary Islands is shared whith the Las Palmas, it remains as at present.^[16][17]

In recent years, it has become clear that there exists a de facto union with neighbouring city San Cristóbal de La Laguna (141,627 inhabitants as in 2005 census) due to the rapid population growth and lack of empty space between both, forming a merged metropolitan union home to 420,198 inhabitants including nearby municipalities Tegueste, Candelaria and El Rosario. Regarding this situation, the mayor of Santa Cruz, Miguel Zerolo Aguilar and his La Laguna counterpart, Ana María Oramas Moro, both belonging to the Canarian Nationalists Party(CC), have stated several times to local media their willingness to proceed to a full political union between their municipalities, even though the decision is due to be postponed to a date after the forthcoming local elections in 2007.

Administrative divisions

Administrative divisions of Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is divided administratively into five districts, which in turn are subdivided into districts, not necessarily consistent with the traditional neighborhoods.

Demographics

Demographics

In 1990, the population peaked above the 200,000 mark; it next hit a record level in the 2003 census. The population has continued to increase, with immigration from Latin America and Africa. Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna are physically and urban together, so that together have a population of over 382,331 inhabitants.^[4][5]

Ethnically, the population is a mix of Spanish, Portuguese, German, British, and Latin American (especially Cuban and Venezuelan), as well as Northern and Sub-Sahara African. There are also important historical minorities such as Indians (Sindhi), Koreans (see Koreans in Spain#Santa Cruz) and lately Russians. The majority of the population professes the Catholic religion, but there is a large community of Hindus and Muslims. In Santa Cruz de Tenerife crimes decreased by 8.65% and 5.01% a fault.

Panoramic view of city

The city as seen from San Andres´ Industrial Estate, to the fund the auditorio and the skyscrapers.

Metropolitan area

Map of Tenerife, in yellow note of Metropolitan Area.

The Santa Cruz de Tenerife-La Laguna Metropolitan Area the second largest city and metropolitan area of the European Union outside Europe. According to data provided by the Canary Islands Government and Cabildo de Tenerife the metropolitan area of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is composed of the municipalities of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, San Cristobal de La Laguna, El Rosario and Tegueste with a population of 404,913 inhabitants in 2008, 322.13 km², and a population density of 1,156.33 inhabitants/km².^[1]

According to AUDES5 this conurbation also comprises the municipalities of Tacoronte and El Sauzal, bringing the total population of the urban population would reach 581.947 (2008).^[19]

The cities of Santa Cruz and San Cristobal de La Laguna and urban are physically linked, so that together have a population of over 382,331 inhabitants. What makes them the largest urban area in the Canaries (independent of municipal lines).^[4][5][6]

Communications

TF5 highway as passing by the Guajara Commercial Area and the Central Campus

Santa Cruz, being the centre of the Tenerife Metropolitan Area, is the logical hub for the island's motorway network. The 85 km. long TF1 Motorway links the south of the island including Playa de las Américas and other southern resorts and towns with its capital. The motorway itself starts near the Auditorio and allows to access Santa Cruz and La Laguna through three different ways.

TF5 Motorway links Santa Cruz with the Puerto de la Cruz, La Orotava and the northern side of the island, passing right through La Laguna before entering Santa Cruz.

The Santa Cruz harbour is one of the busiest in Spain; three quays host regular ferries, fast ferries, cruise ships and merchant ships.

Tenerife North Airport lies on the TF5 Motorway on the outskirts of the city.

The mostly tourist Tenerife South Airport ranks 47th in Spain and is located next to the TF1 Motorway, 75 km. south of Santa Cruz. There are plans to link this airport to the capital with a railway network.

The Intercambiador is in the Avenida 3 de Mayo, hub for all TITSA bus lines and the start of the new Tenerife Tram service, and major parking places.

The first line will start in the Intercambiador, and will end in La Laguna's Avenida Trinidad, reaching Tenerife North Airport in a next stage. Yet another line, this one from Puerto de la Cruz, is planned.

Economy

View of the Industrial Zone

The economy of Santa Cruz relies mainly on services. Trade, tourism, import-export, the seaport and the presence of the major political and financial institutions, as well as the most important companies, guarantee a strong economic activity and development. The building sector is relevant, while industry, apart from the oil refinery and food processing, is minor. The city of Santa Cruz has refurnished many of its quarters, modernised its infrastructure, built brand new areas, malls, high buildings and some charismatic structures, such as Calatrava´s Auditorio or the Congress Hall, César Manrique´s Marina or the not yet completed Óscar Domínguez Museum of Modern Art and Culture (IODACC) and the new Plaza de España layout, both by Basel-based Pritzker Prize winner studio Herzog & de Meuron. The work to renew the concept under man-made Las Teresitas Beach is under the direction of French architect Dominique Perrault.

Arts and Culture

Cultural Areas

Auditorio de Tenerife

Statues in the entrance of the Masonic Temple

Plaza de España

Iglesia de la Concepción (Church of Concepción)

• Auditorio de Tenerife: the work of Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Is an emblematic building of Spanish architecture. The Tenerife Auditorium stands east of the Marine Park. Their great sailing boat simulating has become a symbol of the neighborhood of Cabo Llanos and by extension the whole city, island and archipelago.^[20] The auditorium has two rooms and a chamber symphony. It is the seat of Orquesta Sinfónica de Tenerife and it holds, among other acts, the Festival de Ópera de Tenerife, the Classical Music Festival of the Canary Islands and the delivery of awards Cadena Dial.
• Guimerá Theater: Opened on July 25, 1851. Great nineteenth century building located in the central street of Angel Guimerá.
• Museum of Fine Arts: This museum has, in addition to a fund with a deposit of works from the Prado Museum. Outstanding paintings by artists such as Peter Coeck, Ribera, Madrazo and Sorolla. As a fixed background, artists such as canaries Gaspar de Quevedo, Cristóbal Hernández de Quintana, and Juan Miranda González Méndez, among others.
• Museum of Nature and Man: history, through pictures and objects, the Guanches. There is a room where is the formation of the Canary Islands. Among the archaeological finds shown are several Guanche mummies, including two mummified fetuses. There are a lot of Guanche skulls and reproductions of works of Africa and the pre-Columbian America among many other samples. It is a museum of international reputation since it has participated in international meetings on archeology.
• Circulo de Bellas Artes: Founded in 1926 and based in Castle Street 43, is a cultural center that program of events, such as art exhibitions of painting and photography in the courtroom on the ground floor, directly accessible from the street. It has a cafeteria on the first floor.
• Espacio Cultural El Tanque: In 1997 a former container tank at the refinery, there becomes exhibitions, dance and audio, alternative music, theater, classical music, new technologies and multimedia, among other productions.
• Center for Photography Tenerife: It has areas suitable for exhibition and study of traditional and contemporary photography.
• The Art Room Recova: The Recova the Art Room is located in the old market town. Do not have a permanent collection, but are rotating exhibitions throughout the year.
• TEA - Tenerife Espacio de las Artes: work of Herzog & de Meuron opened in 2008.

Urban Sculpture

The city contains many pieces of sculpture, visible both in their places in their walks, so out of thefertility or Parque Garcia Sanabria Arbórea statue recalls a Sabina twisted by the wind.

But surely the whole of the Exhibition of Outdoor Sculpture in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the most important. Situated along the Ramblas and the Parque Garcia Sanabria, and contains works by artists such as Henry Moore, Andreu Alfaro, Martin Chirino, Joan Miro and Óscar Domínguez, among others.

Cultural events

• Festival de Música Clásica de Canarias.
• Festival de Ópera de Tenerife.
• Festival de Zarzuela de Canarias.
• Festival Santa Blues de Tenerife.
• Plátano Rock Festival.
• MUMES. Mestizo Music Festival.
• Festival de Salsa del Atlántico.
• Carnaval
• Día de la Cruz

Nightlife

Queen Carnival 2006

Santa Cruz has not been characterized by an intense night life, in contrast to the nearby university town of La Laguna. Nevertheless, there are several clubs and pubs spread across the city. The best known are in the Parque Marítimo César Manrique, May 3 Avenue and back, and in La Noria street Residencial Anaga. Moreover, in the area of Industrial Mayorazgo, three new clubs have opened. There are also pubs that have survived without belonging to a particular location for leisure, as the platform, near the Bullring, which opened its doors in 1991.

It has recently gained importance as a leisure street Antonio Dominguez Alfonso (popularly known as Calle La Noria) and adjacent in the vicinity of the Church of the Conception. After several years of neglect, all the houses in this area has been recovered by the local hotel as tapas, light dinner and drinks. This street also hosts the headquarters of several murgas, music groups linked to Carnival, and independent organ of Events and Recreation.

Popularly known as the Avenida de Anaga (as known to all roads adjacent to the port) is in his section of Avenida Francisco la Roche a classic dinner and drinks first. During the 90s was the nerve center of nightlife, the best known local focus of the city. Although many of them closed down because of licenses and noise, attempt to regain its glory today. To that end, the City will undertake various initiatives through 2009.

In 2007, as decided by the City Council and managed by the Society for Development, is set in motion an ambitious plan for revitalization of the city under the brand name "Santa Cruz + Viva ', in accordance with Cabildo Insular de Tenerife and Government of the Canary Islands.^[21]

Media

In Santa Cruz de Tenerife have drafted the three provincial newspapers (The Day Diario de Avisos and La Opinión de Tenerife), as well as editors of newspapers regional La Gaceta de Canarias. Also located in the city the headquarters of various TV channels, most of which broadcast on the island: Spanish Television in the Canary Islands, Television Canaria Antena 3 TV Canary Islands, Television Day, Canal 7 Atlantic, Channel 4 Tenerife, Channel 8, etc. Most radio stations are also located in the city. Radio Club Tenerife (Cadena SER), RNE, Teide Radio-Onda Cero, Radio Day, Radio ECCA etc.. In the city is the headquarters of the TV Canaria.

Tourist sites (Symbols of the city)

Tenerife Opera House, Canary Islands, Spain

Torres de Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz Towers)

• Auditorio de Tenerife (Auditorium of Tenerife): Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the Auditorium of Tenerife was constructed in 2003. The building has an organic and famous structure in the shape of 'sails' with white blue rollers. The auditorium has a big room for concerts, a room for opera and other smaller rooms. It is an emblem of the city and is one of the more photographed buildings. This building is in the Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife close to the sea. It was inaugurated on September 26, 2003 with the presence of Felipe de Borbón, Prince of Asturias, and was also visited by former U.S. President Bill Clinton. The profile of the famous and majestic auditorium has become a symbol of the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island of Tenerife and the Canary Islands. It is one of the main attractions of Tenerife and the Canaries.

• Torres de Santa Cruz (Towers of Santa Cruz): Twin towers finished in 2008 are the highest skyscrapers of the city and Canary Islands. In addition they are the highest residential buildings of Spain.

• Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (Tenerife Space of Arts - TEA): Building designed by the Swiss firm of architects Herzog & de Meuron and directed by the Canary architect Virgilio Gutierrez Herreros. The building houses the contemporary museum Óscar Domínguez Institute, the Alejandro Cioranescu Island Library and the Center for Photography Island of Tenerife. In addition, the property has a hall, a restaurant, a shop, a public plaza, offices.

• Centro Internacional de Ferias y Congresos de Tenerife (Tenerife International Centre for Trade Fairs and Congresses): The complex was designed by architect and engineer Santiago Calatrava is configured as a multipurpose building that can host major fairs, exhibitions and conferences that take place on the island of Tenerife. The Great Hall, located on the top floor, took a total of 12,000 square meters, making it the largest covered space in the Canary Islands.

Naval history

Port of Santa Cruz

Due to the strategic location of Tenerife on the route between the Mediterranean and the Americas, it was attacked a number of times by the English and the Dutch. In particular, Santa Cruz Bay was the scene of two notable naval engagements involving two of the most famous British admirals.

In 1656, Admiral Robert Blake totally destroyed a Spanish silver fleet of 16 ships for the loss of none of his own, despite being under fire from shore batteries and attacking and withdrawing on the tide. 50 years later, the British under John Genings were defeated when they attacked the island on November 6, 1706 during the War of the Spanish Succession.

In 1797 Admiral Horatio Nelson met with bloody defeat in an attempt to storm the harbour. It was at this battle that Nelson lost his right arm having been hit before he had stepped off the ship's boat. It was on Santiago's day and that is the reason for having Santiago's sword cutting the lion's head as a symbol of the British defeat.

Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Panoramic view of the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a fishing port, commercial, passenger and sports from the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, capital of the island, located in the Atlantic Ocean. It is managed by the Port Authority of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

It is the first fishing port in the Canary Islands with approximately 7,500 tons of fish caught, according to the Statistical Yearbook of the State Ports 2006 (the latest of which is changing). Following this report is the largest port number of passengers recorded. Similarly, the second port of Spain moving ship and loaded into cars, only surpassed by the Port of Algeciras Bay.^[12]

Climate

Santa Cruz has a Subtropical climate, with warm dry summers and moderately warm winters. Its average annual temperature is 21 °C (70 °F): 24 °C (75 °F) during the day and 17 °C (63 °F) at night. In the coldest month - January, the typically temperature ranges from 17–21 °C (63–70 °F) during the day, 14–15 °C (57–59 °F) at night, the average sea temperature is 19 °C (66 °F). In the warmest month - August, the typically temperature during the day ranges from 26–30 °C (79–86 °F), above 20 °C (68 °F) at night, the average sea temperature is 23 °C (73 °F). Average number of days per year above 32 °C (90 °F) is 11. Average relative humidity: 61%.^[22] Sunshine hours average at 2,868 per year, from 180 in November and January (6 hours of sunshine a day) to 310 in July and August (10 hours of sunshine a day).^[23] Precipitation per year is only 23.33 cm (inches: 9.2).^[24]

Carnival

Costume Miss Peggy and la rana Gustavo, in the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, along with the carnival in Cadiz, the maximum consideration for parties which gives the ministry with competence for tourism in Spain. Thousands of people take to the streets each year for over a week. On January 18, 1980 was declared a Fiesta of International Tourist Interest by the Secretary of State for Tourism, and is one of the world's largest carnivals. It is the only party that holds that distinction canaria. In 2000, the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, dedicated this year to pirates in the city became "Capital of the World Carnival". And it is the most important country and one of the largest in the world.^[26][27] At present, the Carnival of Santa Cruz hopes to become a World Heritage Site.^[15] This statement from UNESCO will, occur, further promoting international had Santa Cruz de Tenerife, being the first Carnival of Spain to obtain this recognition, for its permanent in time and it would reach the five continents through UNESCO.

Sites of interest

Attractions

Per Adriane, (1993), esculpture by Igor Mitoraj situated in front at Guimerá Theatre.

The parliament of the Canary Islands

Fountain at the Plaza Weyler

Aerial view

• Calle de la Noria
• Macizo de Anaga
  • Igueste de San Andrés
  • Taganana
  • San Andrés
• Palmetum of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre
• Parque Marítimo César Manrique
• Playa de Las Teresitas
• Auditorio de Tenerife
• Teatro Guimerá

Parks and Squares

• Parque García Sanabria
• Plaza de 25 de julio (de los Patos)
• Plaza de España
• Plaza de la Candelaria
• Plaza del Príncipe
• Plaza de Weyler

Churches and historical monuments

• Iglesia de La Concepción (church)
• Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís (church)
• Cabildo Insular de Tenerife (governing body of the island)
• Castillo de San Juan (castle)
• Castillo Negro (castle)
• Parlamento de Canarias (Parliament of the Canary Islands)

Commercial areas

Santa Cruz is popular for its wide commercial offerings, including zona Centro (Central part) - Pedestrian calle Castillo, San José, del Pilar, Viera y Clavijo Zona Rambla (Rambla area) or Rambla de Pulido, calle Ramón y Cajal, and the big shopping centres and department stores in Avenida de 3 Mayo, plus the big malls in Añaza on the southern suburbs. The most upmarket and high street shopping is located along Calle del Pilar and nearby Parque Bulevar Shopping Centre, where many designer shops can be found. International and local brands of shops and restaurants, such as Zara, Mango, H&M, Ordning&Reda, El Corte Inglés, Ikea, C&A, McDonalds and Burger King are much present on the island. Not only the wide range of shops makes the city attractive but the lower prices found in many items, such as tobacco, alcohol, electronic devices, beauty products, sunglasses or even food or coffee. They are indeed much lower than in most cities of Western Europe including Spain, due to the very special and much lighter taxation on goods enjoyed on the Canary Islands.

Nightlife

Santa Cruz is characterized for its nightlife consisting of discothèques and pubs in the Marina park named after César Manrique, Avenida 3 de mayo and Residencial Anaga, as well as pubs in La Noria street and surroundings, as well a nearby La Laguna. The city is also renowned for its massive, popular and at the same time sophisticated carnival, one of the biggest in the World, declared of International Tourist Interest after general Franco's death. It takes the city by storm in February or March every year.

Hotels

Maritime Park "César Manrique"

• Sheraton Mencey *****
• Silken Atlántida ****
• Hotel NH Tenerife ****
• Hotel Escuela Santa Cruz ****
• Hotel Apto. Colón Rambla ***
• El Contemporáneo ***
• Hotel Plaza ***
• Hotel Príncipe Paz ***
• Hotel Taburiente ***
• Hotel Anaga **
• Hotel Atlántico **

Celebrations of the city

Palmetum of Santa Cruz

Roques de Anaga

Playa de Las Teresitas

• January 27 anniversary of the appointment of Santa Cruz de Tenerife of the Canary Islands as the capital.

• February, Carnival (of International Tourist Interest).

• May 3, May festivities. Día de la Cruz (Day of the City of Santa Cruz de Tenerife).

• July 25, the day of Saint James the Great (patron saint of Santa Cruz de Tenerife) and defeat of Admiral Nelson.

Consulates

The consulates with sedate in Santa Cruz de Tenerife they are:

• Austria
• Argentina
• Belgium
• Bolivia
• Brazil
• Chile
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Denmark
• Ecuador
• Philippines
• Finland
• France
• United Kingdom
• Germany
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• India
• Ireland
• Italy
• Liberia
• México
• Monaco
• Nicaragua
• Norway
• Netherlands
• Perú
• Portugal
• Sri Lanka
• Sweden
• Uruguay
• Venezuela

Sister cities

•   Aranda de Duero, Spain
• San Antonio, USA ^[28]
• Santa Cruz, California, USA
• Atlanta, USA
• Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia
• Caracas, Venezuela
• Cádiz, Spain
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Nice, France
• Santa Cruz del Norte, Cuba
• Guatemala City, Guatemala
• Miami Dade, USA
• St. Petersburg, Russia
• Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Santacruceros illustrious

• Juan de Abreu, painter and sculptor.
• Víctor Añino Bermúdez, footballer.
• Carlos Armas, singer.
• Rafael Arozarena, writer.
• Antonio Betancor, film director.
• Zuleidy, porn actress.
• Caco Senante, singer.

See also

Spain portal

• Tenerife
• List of municipalities in Santa Cruz de Tenerife (province)
• San Andrés

References

• "La derrota de Nelson, el manco de Tenerife" by Julio Albert Ferrero, Naval History review, 1998, Juan Arencibia, Vicente Mira Gutiérrez, Editorial Leoncio Rodríguez, Julio N. Rancel, Regional Military Museum of Canarias at Sta. Cruz de Tenerife.

External links

• Santa Cruz de Tenerife travel guide from Wikitravel
• Robert Blake's attack (in Spanish)
• John Genings' attack (in Spanish)

Corporation (Multilingual)

• Map and aerial photos
  • Street map: Street map from Mapquest, MapPoint or Google
  • Satellite images: Google

Municipalities of Tenerife Adeje • Arafo • Arico • Arona • Buenavista del Norte • Candelaria • Fasnia • Garachico • Granadilla de Abona • La Guancha • Guía de Isora • Güímar • Icod de los Vinos • La Matanza de Acentejo • La Orotava • Puerto de la Cruz • Los Realejos • El Rosario • San Cristóbal de La Laguna • San Juan de la Rambla • San Miguel de Abona • Santa Cruz de Tenerife • Santa Ursula • Santiago del Teide • El Sauzal • Los Silos • Tacoronte • El Tanque • Tegueste • La Victoria de Acentejo • Vilaflor

Island capitals of the Canary Islands Province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife Santa Cruz de Tenerife • Santa Cruz de La Palma • San Sebastián de La Gomera • Valverde Province of Las Palmas Las Palmas de Gran Canaria • Arrecife • Puerto del Rosario • Caleta de Sebo

From Wikitravel

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital and largest city of Tenerife. It's also the capital city of the Canary Islands, together with Las Palmas.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife Auditorium

Understand

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is situated at the eastern tip of the island of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Island chain. The municipal borough covers an area of 150.56 square kilometres and it is divided into two differentiated areas: the Anaga Massif and the southern ramp formed by the lava flows that run down from the Acentejo peak to the coast. The maximum altitude in the borough is 750 metres above sea level. Over half the municipal perimeter is shoreline. Population is 223,347 (2005).

History

Before the arrival of the Castilian conquerors, the territory where the city would be based, constituted zones of wild vegetation pertaining to the menceyato (kingdom) of Anaga, that governed the Mencey Beneharo. The pre-Hispanic history of the city is carried out by the legacy of 'guanches' (from Guan Chenech, meaning 'man from Tenerife') and several foreign expeditions which arrived at the coast. In 1494, in one of these trips, the Castilians arrived and established in Santa Cruz the camping bases for the conquest of the island, that extended until 1496, the year in which Tenerife was incorporated into Corona of Castile.

From the beginning, the economic nucleus of the city centred on the port. The first wharf, constructed in 1548, was located by the beach of Añazo, but it was later destroyed in a storm. The present port corresponds with four old points of dockage in the municipal coast: the port of Horses with the creek of Blacks, the creek of Blas Diaz, the High Step and the Bufadero. The bay of Santa Cruz was appreciated by navigators due to its natural advantages, that turned it into a food supply center for the ships that sailed for the New World.

Panoramic view of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

At the end of the 15th century a heterogenous society began to form, composed of soldiers, native sailors, merchants and guanches. The first population establishments were located in the surroundings of the castle of San Cristóbal, a fortification that protected the small town. In the second half of the XVI century, one began to construct the first seat, located in front of to the castle, that would denominate seat of Pila and it corresponds with the present seat of the Candlemas. New defensive castles were constructed along the coastal areas because the people of Santa Cruz had to defend themselves from frequent attacks by privateers and berberiscos pirates, Gallic and English. Until the British Navy, with admiral Nelson to the front, it fell defeated the 25 of 1797 July. This episode, by its importance, will mark the history of the city.

Santa Cruz continued growing and soon she ran into the obstacle of the precipice of Saints that was saved with the construction of several bridges: bridge of the Cabo, Zurita bridge, bridge of the Asuncionistas, etc. Little by little an urban weave to both sides of the precipice made up of small streets and pack animal roads was forming.

In the eighteenth century the first expansion of Santa Cruz, derived from a series of factors took place, as the transfer of the residence of the commander-in-chief from the city from La Laguna to the castle of San Cristóbal. It trasvase of the capital status of the island originated a new administrative dimension. In addition, in 1803 Santa Cruz villa was considered free and the first city council was constituted. The city received importance and to it had also contributed the destruction of the port of Garachico, because of the volcanic eruption of 1706, because it brought with himself a displacement of the economic and commercial activity and the establishment of a bourgeoisie that it wanted to control the harbor businesses.

This increasing population is the one that soon demanded services and zones of leisure. The tree-lined avenue of the Duke, the seat of the Prince, the seat of Weyler and Recova welcomed the bustle and the transfer of the people of Santa Cruz. To the primitive nuclei, like the Toscal, they went adding to parcels of houses and parks that composed new districts. In the 20th century and with the arrival of modernity and the "demographic boom", the city extended its limits as far as possible, becoming the large city that is today and whose borders blur with the urban sprawls of the adjacent municipalities.

Tenerife North Terminal Building

There are two different airports in Tenerife. The Tenerife South Reina Sofia International Airport [1] (IATA: TFS) (ICAO: GCTS) is located about 60km away from Santa Cruz, in the south of Tenerife. It's open the 24 hours of the day with almost 9 million passengers every year. The other airport Tenerife North Los Rodeos International Airport [2] (IATA: TFN) (ICAO: GCXO) closest to the capital, was limited only to island and nationals flights, but the recent opening of the new airport terminal and the entrance of international flights has allowed to improve the connections of the city with the rest of the country and the foreigner.

Tenerife North Airport

• Taxi fares from Tenerife North International Airport to Santa Cruz is 15€.

From Tenerife South International Airport to Santa Cruz is 60€.

• Bus lines 102, 108, and 109 go from Tenerife North Airport to Santa Cruz. Line 341 connects Tenerife South Airport with Santa Cruz. One line connects both airports (Line 340). [www.titsa.com times and fares]

By boat

The Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has become one of the main ports of the country in transit of passengers. You can arrive the city with a Ferry that connects Santa Cruz de Tenerife with Cadiz, in the Mainland, but the trip takes two days. The company that operates this route is Acciona Transmediterranea [3]. You can also take a ship to travel between the islands. The main company is Fred Olsen [4].

Get around

By bus. Fairly cheap (especially if you have a Bono card from bus station and some tobacconists) and fairly regular. Driving is very fast or very slow with little inbetween. Streets can be very narrow. Parking is a problem in the centre.

See

The beaches are less crowded than in the south. The largest is Las Teresitas is made of imported yellow sand and a short 20 minute bus ride (number 910).

The quieter Las Gaviotas is the next bay over and features black sand and plenty of nudists. The infrequent bus 254 there gives impressive views of Las Teresitas.

Do

A number of museums. A good history museum five minutes walk from the bus station, where the No. 14 bus stops. An art gallery in town and a small planetarium\science centre on the way to La Laguna (bus 14 passes it). A Bono bus card not only entitles you to cheap travel on TITSA buses but cut price museum entrance. Large Sunday market near the bus station.

• Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, [5]. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the biggest and most spectacular events of its kind in the World. Every February, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of the largest of the Canary Islands, hosts this historical event, attracting around a million people from everywhere.  edit

Buy

There are two El Corte Ingles department stores selling pretty much everything, as well as various shopping complexes on the outskirts. The main market is well worth a visit, although it is not aimed at the tourists - great fruit, veg, flowers, etc. There is a flea market on a Sunday near the bus station, if you're short of fleas. Some electrical tourist tat near the main square, which are probably best avoided.

If you're on holiday though, there's more to life than shopping. Why not stroll around the beautiful park up by the Rambla instead?

Eat

Canaries food, Spanish food and inevitably, fast food. Most places are good value, but one or two tourist traps near the port. Plenty of good fish, although a dictionary may be helpful.

Drink

Whatever you want. Only a few bars, with a few local people in them.

Sleep

There are a few reasonable hotels in the city, the best placed is the Hotel Principe Paz. However, parking can be a nightmare, so it's best to use one of the underground car parks at around 12 euros a day. Santa Cruz doesn't feel overly touristy (it doesn't really cater for them), so can be a pleasant change from the hot spots in the south.

• NH Tenerife, Candelaria Esquina Doctor Allart, +34.922.534.422 [6]. NH Tenerife is a recently built 3 stars hotel situated in the main centre of the historical and bussines areas of the city. It is located very close to the Auditorio, the shopping area, the harbour and the theatres.
• Résidence Maeva Marazul del Sur, [7]. This 11-floor residence with lifts has a heated freshwater swimming pool and a seawater pool. This beautiful complex overlooks the sea and is set in 8 hectares of exotic greenery. 8 km from Playa San Juan, 10 km from Fañabe beaches, 13 km from Los Cristianos and 30 km from the surfers’ paradise in Medano. Car recommended.  edit

• Gran Melia Palacio de Isora, ☎ (34) 922 86 90 00, [8]. Luxury 5-star accommodations, business meeting spaces, resort activities and more.  edit