Tinajo

History

Tinajo was one of the last parts of the island to be invaded during the Spanish conquest in the 1490’s. Two hundred years later, the town was still sparsely populated, and it has been suggested that the population failed to increase at the time as it was under the rule of the infamously cruel and aptly named Ana the Vicious. The ruler was so strict and unfair on her people that many were discouraged from living there. From 1730-1736, several volcanic eruptions took place, which remain to this day the longest continuous eruptions ever recorded. According to legend, the present patron of the island, the Virgin de la Peña, was born in the sea of lava. It was said that during her presence, the flow of the lava stopped. Much of Tinajo, and the Mancha Blanca village in particular, spent many years blanketed in lava after the eruption. It was not until the 19th century that the town’s fortunes took a turn for the better. It was at this time that the area gained independence from the lands of Inaguaden, and became known as a municipality in its own right. Soon after, agriculture, and the export of the rich jable soil, became prominent in Tinajo. This had a positive effect on the area’s wealth and economy, and Tinajo has remained prosperous ever since.

Culture

Tinajo is famous for its Lucha Canaria wrestling tradition, and has one of the best teams on the island. The town has its own Terrero, a sand covered ring which forms a wrestling arena. This is located south of Tinajo, on the main road which comes from Mancha Blanca. Tinajo also plays host to beautiful religious art and architecture. A definate must see is the statue of Christ by Luján Pérez, the best-known and most productive sculptor of the Canaries.

Local crafts, using materials such as clay in particular, are a big part of Tinajo’s culture. Local artisians mostly make decorative crafts, and produce them by hand, using very little machinery in process. At the local market, you are likely to find quality items such as clay pots and vases, which have been made by Tinajo’s creative residents.

Religion

Tinajo is home to the Ermita de los Dolores, which is one of the most important churches on the island. Situated in the Mancha Blanca village, the church, and the catholic religion, has proved to be central to the community of Tinajo.

Economy

Traditionally, Tinajo has always been an agricultural town, and is one of the important zones on the island in terms of production. During the 19th century, Sandier jable soil was one the area’s main exports thanks to its suitability for growing crops, and this was once carried through the island on the backs of camels. Today, much of the area’s economy is based upon fruit and vegetable produce and livestock. This rural lifestyle is evident in the beautiful, rustic landscape, which comprises many picturesque farms. Thanks to the region’s agricultural prosperity, there are also many grand, luxurious houses, particularly in La Vegueta. In 2006, Tinajo began hosting a regular farmers' market, which takes place every Sunday from 10am - 2pm. The market is well worth a visit as it exhibits local produce at excellent prices. Since the 1960’s, the area has seen a steady growth in tourism without feeling the need to adapt its image in order to attract more people. Consequently, Tinajo provides a uniquely authentic atmosphere, compared to the more touristy areas on the island.

How to get there

By Bus:
From Arrecife, buses 15, 16, 52 and 53 stop by Tinajo on their way (12 times daily on weekdays, and less frequent on weekends) to La Santa.

By Car:
Hiring car is a convenient way to get to and around Tinajo. Finding Tinajo is easy, from Arrecife, simply follow the LZ-20, and the journey should take no more than half an hour. From Haría on the north, take LZ-10 southward before turning right onto LZ-30 at Teguise, then and right again onto LZ-20. From far south (Playa Blanca or Yaiza), follow LZ-2, followed by LZ-67. Last but not least the popular Parque Nacional de Timanfaya is less than 15 minutes drive south on LZ-67.