San Cristóbal de la Laguna

San Cristóbal de la Laguna is the first non fortified Spanish colonial city, and its disposition is one of the most characteristic examples of the urban structure that was later developed in Spanish America. Because of the Hippodamian plan (grid plan), the Laguna is considered the most immediate antecedent of the planning that is reproduced in cities like Habana (Cuba), Lima or Trujillo (Peru).

The city is divided into two “Villas”, towns: Villa de Arriba – whose urban planning doesn’t correspond to any specific model – and the Villa de Abajo, designed in a grid, not fortified.

Among its historic complexes are numerous squares, churches with towers and bell towers, like the Concepción Church and the symmetric facades with big windows, like the city hall which used to be the mayor’s house.

The old part of the city of San Cristóbal de la Laguna is a monumental complex of great value. It was declared World Heritage by the UNESCO, and it is a unique example of the urban design of the Renaissance. Both its layout and buildings are predecessors to cities in Spanish America.

Its pedestrian streets allow you to enjoy the cozy, warm and ancient flavor. The terraces of the bars and cafés are places where you can relax with a cold beer or coffee.

The city of La Laguna is north of the island of Tenerife. It is considered to be the oldest town of the island. Until Santa Cruz became the capital, La Laguna was in charge of the government and the management of all kinds of affairs.

Today it is a good option to study and to live in, since it has a nice cultural history. It allows you to have contact with the countryside and its traditions, with the sea and fishing as well as a cultural offer that is only surpassed by Santa Cruz.

The Romería de San Benito is one of the most popular events that gather a lot of people, both locals and tourists.

Plano Leonardo Torriani, S. XIV which shows the layout of the city, San Cristobal de La Laguna, continues to guide us through the main streets of La Laguna. Note that La Laguna was the first modern population settled in Tenerife when island was annexed under the crown of Castile. It also was the site of experimentation to expand the "city area" [City-based concepts of Platonic republic], or a space of balance, without walls, without defensive systems and as open as a compass rose. It was the model city for the "New World" (America).