TEROR
A visit to Teror is a must, not only for its exquisite Canarian architecture, but also because of its historic and religious importance. An independent parish since 1514, Teror is one of the oldest urban centres on the island. Its religious connections date back to the time when the Virgin Mary was sighted under a pine tree in a nearby forest. The Madonna of the Pine later became the island’s patron saint, and pilgrims travel from near and far to pay homage. The town centre was declared a heritage sight in 1979.
Map of Maspalomas
NEED TO KNOW
Tourist information office: C/Padre Cueto 2; open 9:30am–4pm Mon–Fri
Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino: open 3:30–8pm Mon, 9am–1pm, 3–8pm Tue–Fri, 9am–8pm Sat, 8am–8pm Sun
Casa de los Patronos de la Virgen: Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Pino; open 11am–4pm Mon–Fri, 10am–2pm Sat–Sun; adm: €3.00
Market: open 9am–3pm Sun
Cistercian Convent: C/Obispo Pozuelo; open 10am–1pm, 3–6pm daily (for sale of cakes and biscuits only)
Finca de Osorio: GC-43, around 2km (1 mile) from Teror; 928 63 00 90; open 9am–6pm daily; visits by appointment only
- Popular locally, La Alacena (C/Diputación 6) offers good Canarian food.
1. Calle Real de la Plaza
If you appreciate Canarian architecture, you’ll love this peaceful street, with its traditional balconies and red-tiled roofs.
Traditional Canariian architecture, Calle Real de la Plaza
2. Market
Gran Canaria’s oldest market offers a curious blend of traditional foodstuffs, bric-a-brac and religious memorabilia. The stall-holders set up behind the church on Sundays, livening up the otherwise eerily quiet town.
3. Plaza Teresa de Bolívar
Built in 1953 as an overspill for the Fiesta del Pino, this square was dedicated to Teresa de Bolívar, wife of the South American revolutionary Simón Bolívar. Her family come from Teror, and the family crest adorns the square.
Plaza Teresa de Bolívar
4. Cistercian Convent
The nuns at this convent sell homemade cakes. Ring the bell, and a turntable will rotate, showing what’s on offer. Place your money on the turntable and voice your preference. An unseen nun will pass your cakes over.
5. Chorizo de Teror
Garlic lovers will adore the tasty local sandwich-filler. This flavoursome, spreadable sausage is available at every bar and restaurant, and also at the Sunday market.
6. Finca de Osorio
Set in the lush Parque Rural de Doramas, this farm boasts some unique flora, such as the pretty Canarian bellflower. Look out for shrews and owls, and take in fine views from the top of Pico de Osorio, the Finca’s famous peak.
7. Fiesta del Pino
On 8 September each year, Teror becomes a hive of activity. Pilgrims walk from all over the island to join in the festivities in honour of their patron saint.
Festivities at Fiesta del Pino
8. Casa de los Patronos de la Virgen
Teror’s main museum offers a glimpse into how the Canarian gentry lived in years gone by. Delightfully furnished rooms and a small chapel encircle the patio, which has an Italian fountain as its centrepiece. The place is wonderfully authentic, right down to the musty smell that still lingers.
Exhibits at Casa de los Patronos de la Virgen
9. Casa de la Cultura (Episcopal Palace)
Part of this magnificent building is still home to the bishop, but a large section is used for temporary exhibitions by local artists. This is fitting, as it was the townsfolk who presented the house to the Canarian bishops in the 18th century, in gratitude for their support in building the basilica.
10. Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino
Home to the Madonna of the Pine, this church is a significant island highlight.
THE GREEN HEART OF GRAN CANARIA
Teror boasts areas of natural beauty, which have earned it the title el corazón verde de Gran Canaria (“the green heart of Gran Canaria”). Thanks to considerable winter rainfall, the region has lush ravines, palm groves and an area of rare laurel forest. Above the town, the Caldera de Pino Santo (Holy Pine Crater) and its environs have been declared a protected landscape in recognition of their natural beauty.
