Arrecife (Capital City)

The capital and largest city of Lanzarote since the capital was transferred from Teguise in 1852, with a population of approximately 64,000. Arrecife's name derives from the Spanish word for "reef" (arrecife), referring to the volcanic rock reefs that shelter its natural harbour. Key landmarks include the Castillo de San Gabriel (1592), a fortress built on a small islet connected to the mainland by the Puente de las Bolas drawbridge — today housing the History Museum. The Castillo de San José, an 18th-century fortress on the harbour, now houses the Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo (MIAC) with works by Miró, Tàpies, Millares, and Manrique. The Charco de San Ginés is a picturesque lagoon surrounded by whitewashed fishermen's houses and traditional boats, now lined with cafés and restaurants — one of the most photogenic spots in the city. The Gran Hotel Arrecife (2004) is the tallest building on the island. The city centre offers shopping along Calle Real and the surrounding pedestrian streets. Arrecife's working harbour is the island's commercial centre, with container and cruise ship terminals.