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A sleepy backwater
with a glorious past. Garachico was founded in 1496 by Cristos
del Pone.
Situated in
the north it was the main port and trade centre especially for
wine, amongst its most famous was Malmansay immortalised in Shakespears
Richard 3rd.
In 1706 the
town was devastated by a huge volcanic eruption that overwhelmed
it and partially buried the town and blocked the harbour, without
it the inhabitants were forced to fall back on the past traditional
methods of making a living namely fishing and farming, which for
us today means that we can enjoy some of the islands best fish,
Shellfish and wine.
The buildings
left untouched by the eruptions are partially noteworthy like
the Castle San Miguel (1517), the convents of San Fransisco and
Santa Domingo dated around the 16th and 17th century.
The many fine
mansions built by the wealthy merchants of the town during its
flourishing hay-day and The Parish Church with its collection
of paintings and religious sculptures are well worth a visit.
Although there
is no beach the area is dotted with pools created by the molten
lava flowing into the sea perfect for a dip after exploring this
unspoiled town.
Garachico
past and present is one of Tenerife's Gems.
Help line
0871 871 0130.
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