Castillo de San Felipe
The Castillo de San Felipe is a coastal fortress in Puerto de la Cruz whose construction began around 1599 and was completed in 1604, built to defend the northern coast of Tenerife from pirate and corsair attacks. With a pentagonal plan and colonial style, it once had three iron cannons, a garrison of about 35 soldiers, and a moat that surrounded the building, now replaced by a walkway. After falling out of military use in the 19th century, it was restored in the late 20th century and reopened in 1993 as a municipal cultural space.
It currently permanently hosts exhibitions of painting, sculpture, and photography, as well as concerts, conferences, and other cultural activities. It is declared a Cultural Interest Asset with the category of Monument.
Essential information
Accessibility
The castle is located in the Playa Jardín area (Calle Luis Lavaggi, 10), about 900 meters from the town center of Puerto de la Cruz, at the mouth of the San Felipe ravine, making it easily accessible on foot from Playa Jardín itself, where there are nearby public parking lots. By car, it can be reached by following the signs towards Playa Jardín, in the west of the municipality.
Have a business in Tenerife?
Get featured in our guide and reach thousands of tourists looking for unique experiences.
Advertise hereBook verified experiences
Find and book activities, tours and excursions with free cancellation through GetYourGuide.
Browse GetYourGuide tours