Canaries stands out for its number of churches and the uniqueness of many of them. They are part of the history of the Islands, reflecting historical events including the times when their shores were visited by pirates.
Here follows just a selection of five temples worth visiting and enjoying for various reasons.
Iglesia de San Juan Bautista (Arucas, Gran Canaria)
The Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, popularly known as the Catedral de Arucas, is one of the most emblematic temples in the Canaries, despite not being an official cathedral. Its construction began in 1909 on the remains of an earlier church and continued for several decades, until the mid-20th century. The building is entirely made of blue stone from Arucas, quarried locally and crafted by expert stonemasons, giving it a unique character deeply connected to its surroundings.
Its style is primarily neo-Gothic, with clear influences of modernism in some decorative details. The slender towers, large windows, and stained glass create a special atmosphere within. Inside, there are valuable works of sacred art, including religious images and altarpieces, along with a monumental German organ, which remains one of the most significant on the Island.
Beyond its religious function, the church has become a symbol of identity for Arucas, visible from many points in northern Gran Canaria. Its imposing silhouette, reminiscent of great European cathedrals, contrasts with the traditional environment of the town and attracts both worshippers and visitors interested in architecture and local history.
Iglesia de San Ginés (Teguise, Lanzarote)
The Iglesia de San Ginés de Clermont, located in the historic town of Teguise, is one of the oldest and most significant temples in Lanzarote. Its origins date back to the 16th century, when it was built in honour of the island’s patron saint. Since then, it has been the religious heart of the town and the venue for important liturgical and festive celebrations linked to Lanzarote’s traditions.
The building has undergone numerous transformations throughout its history due to fires and pirate attacks, particularly in the 16th and 17th centuries, which necessitated its reconstruction on several occasions. These vicissitudes are reflected in the current architecture, which blends elements from different eras, including Gothic and Mudejar details as well as Baroque touches. Its bell tower and the contrast between volcanic stone and whitewashed walls exemplify traditional Canarian architecture.
Today, the church not only serves its religious purpose but also stands as a symbol of the resilient character of the town of Teguise. Each year, during the patronal festivities of San Ginés, the temple becomes a meeting point for locals and visitors, keeping alive the historical and cultural memory of Lanzarote through faith and popular devotion.
Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña (Betancuria, Fuerteventura)
The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña is located in the historic village of Betancuria and is one of the most venerated temples in Fuerteventura. It houses the image of Our Lady of La Peña, the island’s patron saint, whose devotion dates back to the 15th century. Tradition says that the statue appeared miraculously in a cave in the Malpaso ravine, quickly turning the site into a centre of pilgrimage.
Architecturally, the temple reflects the simplicity typical of religious structures in Fuerteventura, built with local stone and whitewashed walls. Its interior features a Baroque altarpiece and various elements of sacred art that enhance the image of the Virgin. Over the centuries, the church has been renovated several times but retains the humble and welcoming spirit that characterises it.
Every September, during the Fiestas de la Peña, the church becomes a destination for thousands of pilgrims arriving from all corners of the island. This celebration, one of the most important in the Canaries, combines religious devotion with folklore and popular culture from Majorera, reinforcing the identity and attachment of Fuerteventura’s inhabitants to their patroness.
Iglesia de la Concepción (Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
The Iglesia de la Concepción is the most representative temple in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and one of the most historically significant on the island. Its origins date back to the late 15th century, when the first chapel was built following the conquest. Since then, it has become the spiritual centre of the city and the guardian of the Foundational Cross, with which Alonso Fernández de Lugo took possession of Tenerife in 1494.
The building, declared a Property of Cultural Interest, combines various architectural styles resulting from reforms made over the centuries. Its bell tower, visible from much of the city, is one of its most characteristic features. Inside, notable elements include Mudejar coffered ceilings, Baroque altarpieces, and valuable pieces of silverwork that reflect the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the parish.
Beyond its religious importance, the church plays a vital role in the social and cultural life of Santa Cruz. It hosts events linked to the city’s founding festivities and processions that attract worshippers and visitors alike. Thus, the Concepción is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of identity for the people of Santa Cruz.
Iglesia de San Juan Bautista (Vallehermoso, La Gomera)
The Iglesia de San Juan Bautista is the most significant temple in Vallehermoso and one of the most monumental religious buildings in La Gomera. Construction began in the late 19th century and continued for several decades into the 20th century, which accounts for its large size and the contrast with the rural surroundings. Due to its imposing presence, many refer to it as the “cathedral of La Gomera”, despite not having that official status.
The building features a combination of neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque elements, with a structure of three naves, pointed arches, and a symmetrically flanked facade by two towers. Its interior impresses with its spaciousness and brightness, as well as housing images of great popular devotion, including that of the patron saint, San Juan Bautista, whose feast is celebrated every 24 June with religious and cultural events.
Beyond its liturgical function, the church has become a symbol for the residents of Vallehermoso and a cultural attraction for visitors to the island. Its disproportionate size for a small municipality reflects the ambition of those who built it, leaving as a legacy one of the most unique temples in the Canaries, capable of impressing both the faithful and travellers.
Iglesia del Cristo Redentor (La Laguna, Tenerife)
The Church of the Most Holy Redeemer, located in Las Chumberas, continues to solidify its international prestige months after being honoured in Japan with one of the most prestigious awards in architectural design.
The work, designed by Canarian architect Fernando Menis, received the ADF Design Excellence Award 2025 from the Aoyama Design Forum in March.
The church, with a structure inspired by the volcanic geology of the Canaries, has attracted attention not only for its disruptive aesthetics but also for the social impact of its construction.
Additionally, it is funded by donations from the local community, parishioners, and small businesses in the area.
