Santa Cruz 'Bullring,' the recovery

Recovery of the Plaza de Toros de Santa Cruz: project and details

After many years of abandonment, the Plaza de Toros de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, located in the Barrio de los Hoteles, has long awaited a recovery project. The building, designed by architect Antonio Pintor, was inaugurated in 1893 and held its last bullfight in the 1980s. Since 2014, it has been protected as part of the Cultural Heritage of the Barrio de los Hoteles.

What did the rehabilitation project entail?

In 2021, the property owners submitted a plan that included housing, parking, and public use spaces while preserving the original facade of the building. The Insular Commission for Historical Heritage of the Cabildo of Tenerife issued a favorable report, albeit with conditions.

Preservation of the facade

One of the key points is to keep the circular facade intact, considered the most characteristic element of the building. According to the report, its height, materials, dimensions, and the number and arrangement of its openings must be respected. More information about this type of intervention can be found on the portal of Canarian Historical Heritage.

New use of the interior space

The plan included a six-story residential building and about 591 parking spaces in three basements. Possible uses also mentioned were a hotel or a senior residence, in addition to giving the interior courtyard and a small cultural facility, such as a playroom or daycare, to open the space to the public.

Integration of the historical design of Antonio Pintor

The report calls for integrating original elements, such as the cast iron columns that Antonio Pintor brought from Seville and the iron railings. It also proposes opening the openings in the facade that appeared in the original plans but were never executed.

By 2025, the project was still unapproved. The Santa Cruz City Council is working on a Special Plan for the Barrio de los Hoteles that will allow for expanded uses of the building while the Cabildo insists on its protection. Meanwhile, the plaza remains closed and in an advanced state of deterioration. Its recovery would be great news for the heritage of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.