Casa de los Balcones | Tenerife

Casa de los Balcones (House of the Balconies) is one of the most iconic and well-preserved examples of traditional Canarian architecture in La Orotava, Tenerife, located in the Orotava Valley. The house is famous for its stunning wooden balconies, which showcase the island's characteristic style and cultural heritage. It is an important historical and architectural site in the Canary Islands, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s past.

Historical Background

• Built in the 17th Century: The Casa de los Balcones was constructed in the 17th century and originally served as the home of wealthy merchants. It is an excellent example of the island's traditional architectural style during that period.
• The house was designed by a prominent family in La Orotava, reflecting the wealth and social status of its owners, as well as the region's prosperity at the time.
• Over the years, the house has been passed down through various families, and it has undergone renovations to preserve its historical value.

Architectural Features

• Wooden Balconies: The most distinctive feature of the Casa de los Balcones is its elaborate wooden balconies, which are considered some of the finest examples of Canarian woodwork. The balconies are intricately carved and decorated, adding a striking beauty to the facade of the building.
• Traditional Canarian Architecture: The house is a fine example of traditional Canarian architecture, with stone walls, wooden beams, and tile roofing. The architecture incorporates elements of Baroque and Mudejar styles, creating a unique fusion of European influences and local traditions.
• Courtyard: The house features a typical Canarian patio (courtyard), which is open to the sky and surrounded by rooms on all sides. The courtyard is often filled with plants and flowers, adding to the charm of the house.
• Interior Details: Inside, the house is decorated with antique furniture, traditional ceramics, and other items that reflect the lifestyle of its former owners. Visitors can see period rooms that showcase Canarian craftsmanship, including hand-painted tiles and decorative woodwork.

Museum and Cultural Importance

• The Casa de los Balcones is now a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Canarian culture and heritage. The house has been restored to maintain its historical integrity while also serving as a space for the community to learn about traditional life in Tenerife.
• Exhibitions: The museum features exhibitions on Canarian craftsmanship, local art, furniture, and handicrafts. Visitors can learn about the wooden balcony tradition, which is an important part of Tenerife's cultural identity, as well as the techniques used in Canarian wood carving.
• The house also has a shop selling local handicrafts, including embroidered textiles, wooden items, and ceramics, which showcase the island’s artistic traditions.

Location and Accessibility

• Location: Casa de los Balcones is located in the historic center of La Orotava, one of the most picturesque towns in Tenerife. The building sits near the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, making it easy for visitors to find.
• Public Transportation: The house is accessible by car, and there are several bus routes that pass through La Orotava, connecting the town to other parts of the island, including Puerto de la Cruz and Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Opening Hours: The museum is typically open to the public year-round, with extended hours during the tourist season. It’s a good idea to check the museum’s website for current opening times.

Why Visit Casa de los Balcones?

• Architectural Beauty: The Casa de los Balcones is an essential visit for anyone interested in Canarian architecture and history, particularly due to its stunning wooden balconies and traditional design.
• Cultural Insight: The museum provides a rich understanding of the local culture and craftsmanship that has shaped Tenerife’s identity over the centuries.
• Quaint Location: The house is situated in La Orotava, one of the most beautiful towns on the island. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the town’s charming streets, with their cobblestone paths, historic buildings, and scenic views of the valley.

Visiting Casa de los Balcones is a unique opportunity to explore Tenerife’s cultural history and traditional architecture. Its combination of beautiful design, historical significance, and artistic heritage makes it one of the most important landmarks in La Orotava and the island of Tenerife.