Plaza de España in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the largest square in the city, is a vibrant and dynamic hub that beautifully blends historical significance with modern-day charm. Situated in the heart of the capital of Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands, this square is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
The history of Plaza de España is a fascinating journey through the centuries. Originally, this area was home to the Ermita de la Consolación, a chapel built in 1496. This chapel was later replaced by the Castillo San Cristóbal in 1575, a fortress that played a crucial role in the defense of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The castle was a formidable structure, with walls standing 8.3 meters high and equipped with cannons and a permanent garrison of artillerymen. It was a key player in repelling attacks, including the famous assault by Admiral Nelson in 1797.
However, by 1928, the castle had outlived its defensive purpose and was demolished to make way for the development of the city. The demolition of the castle paved the way for the creation of Plaza de España, which quickly became a central point for traffic and social gatherings in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
One of the most striking features of Plaza de España is the Monumento de los Caídos, or the Monument to the Fallen. This monument, unveiled in 1947, is dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives in the Spanish Civil War. Designed by architect Tomás Machado and sculptors Enrique Cejas Zaldívar and Alonso Reyes, the monument is a towering 25-meter-high cross with an observation platform at the top (though it is not accessible to the public). Surrounding the base are allegorical sculptures representing the Fatherland, Victory, and the values of both civilian and military life. The monument is encircled by a semi-circular colonnade, adding to its grandeur.
In 2006, Plaza de España underwent a significant transformation led by the renowned Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron. The redesign aimed to enhance the square's functionality as a recreational space while softening the impact of the Monumento de los Caídos. The centerpiece of this redesign is a circular lake, up to 90 cm deep, that occasionally features a saltwater fountain. The lake, with its tranquil waters and black lava rock edges, reflects the natural beauty of the Canary Islands. Visitors can relax by the lake, enjoying the serene environment and the lush vegetation that surrounds it.
During the redesign, the Alameda del Duque de Santa Elena, a tree-lined promenade with views of the sea, was also incorporated into the square. The entrance to the Alameda, which had been demolished in the past, was reconstructed with its original three-arched design, further enhancing the historical ambiance of the area.
Additionally, the foundations of the old Castillo de San Cristóbal were discovered during the renovation. This led to the creation of an underground museum that delves into the history of the castle and the 1797 attack on Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Visitors can explore this museum to gain deeper insights into the city's rich past.
Plaza de España is flanked by several notable buildings that add to its allure. The Cabildo de Tenerife, designed by architect José Enrique Marrero Regalado and completed in 1940, serves as the island's administrative headquarters. The building's impressive architecture and the historic murals by José Aguiar García in the Salón Noble are protected as cultural heritage.
Another significant building is the Edificio de Correos y Telégrafos, the main post office of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Designed by architect Luis Lozano Lasilla, construction began in 1946 and was completed in 1957. A plaque on the building commemorates the laying of the first underwater cable between Cadiz and Santa Cruz de Tenerife in 1883.
The Edificio Olympo, a 57-meter-high structure built in 1975, stands on the site of the former Hotel La Orotava. This modern building houses shops, offices, and residential spaces, contributing to the square's bustling atmosphere.
The Casino de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, completed in 1935 and designed by Miguel Martín Fernández de la Torre, is another architectural gem. This building, owned by the private Sociedad Casino de Tenerife, is not a gambling casino but a cultural and recreational association. It has hosted numerous significant events and art exhibitions and has been a protected heritage site since 2006.
Plaza de España is also home to several intriguing sculptures. The Corpóreo de la marca Santa Cruz, installed in December 2016, is an 11.1-meter-long and 1.4-meter-high sculpture that displays the city's tourist slogan, Santa Cruz, the heart of Tenerife. Another notable piece is Lo llevo bien by Basque artist Julio Nieto.
In conclusion, Plaza de España in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a captivating blend of history, culture, and modernity. Whether you're exploring its historical monuments, relaxing by the tranquil lake, or admiring the architectural marvels that surround it, this square offers a unique and enriching experience that reflects the vibrant spirit of Tenerife.
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