Patroness of the Canary Islands Square – in real time
The Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria welcomes
Welcome to Patroness of the Canary Islands Square in Candelaria today
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Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria: heart of Tenerife
The Patroness of the Canary Islands Square is the most symbolic space of the archipelago. Open to the Atlantic, it combines Guanche history, Marian devotion, and the landscape of southeastern Tenerife in one place. That is why it receives visitors from all over Spain and a large part of the world at any time of the year. With our live webcam, you can see the atmosphere of the square and the state of the sky in real time before coming.
History: from the shore to the sanctuary
The link between this place and the sea goes back a long way. According to tradition, some Guanche shepherds found the image of the Virgin on the beach of Chimisay more than six centuries ago. Since then, the worship has been continuously growing: first in the cave of Achbinico, by the shore, and later in various temples that were damaged by fires. The Basilica of Candelaria that we see today was completed in 1959, designed by architect José Enrique Marrero Regalado. Its 45-meter bell tower dominates the skyline of the town and has become a visual reference for the entire coast.
As for the square's ground, it also has its history: where people stroll today was once a black sand beach with the Castle of San Pedro. Over time, the space transformed into the large pedestrian plaza we know, a stage for concerts, markets, and the two major annual festivals of the Virgin.
The menceyes and Guanche identity
At the water's edge, the nine bronze statues of the menceyes watch over the ocean. They represent the kings of the nine Guanche kingdoms that ruled Tenerife before the conquest and are the work of Tenerife sculptor José Abad. Walking among them is a journey into the past with the Atlantic as a backdrop. Additionally, the Square of the Patroness of the Canaries also offers one of the best viewpoints of the southeastern coast of the island, especially at sunrise, when the sun rises over the sea.
| Detail | Basilica of Candelaria | La Concepción (Orotava) | Christ of Tacoronte |
|---|---|---|---|
| Era | 20th century, Canarian style | 18th century, Baroque | 17th century |
| Facade | Light stone and wood | Curved reliefs | Dark and sober stone |
| Most striking | 45 m bell tower, menceyes | Classical decoration | Structure of three naves |
Visiting the square: practical tips
The square is a very open and sunny space, so it's advisable to bring sun protection. The busiest times are February 2 and the night of August 14 to 15, when thousands of pilgrims walk from all over the island for the great pilgrimage. On the other hand, if you seek tranquility, a weekday morning is the ideal time. Right next to it is the port of Candelaria, where it’s worth taking a walk and trying fresh fish at the restaurants along the promenade. To plan your visit, also check the Tenerife webcams in CanariasLife.
Everything you wanted to know about the Candelaria Square
What can be seen on the webcam of the Plaza Patrona de Canarias?
The camera shows the square, the facade of the Basilica, and the surrounding atmosphere in real time. It's useful for knowing if there are a lot of people or if the weather is nice before going out.
What is the Basilica of Candelaria?
The sanctuary of the Virgin of Candelaria, patroness of the Canary Islands. Completed in 1959 and elevated to minor basilica in 2011, it receives around 2.5 million visits each year and has been declared a Cultural Asset.
Who are the menceyes of the square?
They are the nine bronze sculptures representing the Guanche kings of Tenerife before the conquest. Created by the sculptor José Abad, they are located by the sea and are one of the most recognizable symbols of Candelaria.
When are the festivals of the Virgin of Candelaria?
On February 2, a liturgical feast, and the night of August 14 to 15, with a pilgrimage, representation of the Virgin's apparition, and solemn procession.
How to get to the Plaza Patrona de Canarias?
On the TF-1 highway, about 20 minutes from Santa Cruz de Tenerife. There is surface parking near Avenida Marítima and guagua connections from TITSA from the capital.
Is there anything else to see near the square?
Yes: the Achbinico Cave, about 400 meters south, the fishing port, and the promenade of Candelaria. It is also worth exploring the webcams of the municipality on CanariasLife to discover other corners.