San Cristóbal de La Laguna
Tenerife · Areas
San Cristóbal de La Laguna
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, La Laguna served as the former capital of Tenerife and is its cultural and ecclesiastical heart. Founded in 1497, its grid-pattern colonial layout became the template for many Latin American cities. The historic centre features colourful 16th–18th century buildings, the Cathedral of La Laguna, and several convents and palaces. Home to the University of La Laguna (founded 1792), Spain's first university established outside the mainland, educating over 25,000 students.