Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria

THE PATRON SAINT OF THE CANARY ISLANDS. Candelaria houses the Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria - the most important sanctuary in the entire Canarian archipelago. In front, 9 BRONZE STATUES of the Guanche menceyes (4-5 m tall) guard the temple facing the ocean. Behind, the Cave of Achbinico where two Guanche shepherds found the image of the Virgin before the Spanish conquest. Cultural Heritage Site. FREE. And 5 minutes away: LA COFRADIA DE CALETILLAS - fishermen's guild restaurant with ocean terrace, fresh fish straight from the harbour, fried octopus, local prices. THE PERFECT HIGHWAY STOP on the TF-1 between the south resorts and Santa Cruz/north: exit the motorway, 45-90 minutes of culture + spectacular lunch, and continue on your way.