Cesar Manrique – Art & Nature

Drive along the northeast coast further north to reach the Malpais de la Corona, a widespread plain of weather-beaten lava stone formed by the last eruptions of the Corona Crater over 3,000 years ago. Through the years, singular vegetation unfolded itself, which added a special charm to this otherwise poor and dry landscape. In this area you’ll visit Jameos del Agua, a partially open cave which is part of a huge lava tunnel. The famous native artist Cesar Manrique transformed this cave into a small paradise. As you enter, you can see the subterranean lake roofed by a huge arch of lava stones. Small, blind Albino crabs that are normally only found in deep-sea areas inhabit this lake. A tropical garden with beautiful plants is set up on an open area of the cave with an artificial pool in the center. Passing through the garden there is the entrance to the concert hall, a natural auditorium with capacity for more than 500 persons. Continue to Guatiza Village to visit the Cactus Garden where Cesar Manrique converted a natural gravel mine into a beautifully designed garden with more than 1,000 species of cacti from all over the world. The interior structure is circular with walls made up of terraces descending from the ground in levels displaying the different varieties of cactus. Surrounding the garden, you can also see the local cultivations of cactus with cochineal parasite used as a natural component for coloring and as ingredient for some other drinks and products. Your next stop will be at Tahiche Village, where you’ll visit the Cesar Manrique Foundation, which purpose is to preserve the environment and combine the beauties of the island with natural protection and decoration. The artist’s former house, now converted into a foundation, is a two-level structure built on five huge natural volcanic bubbles and is the best example of his ideas. The upper floor is inspired by the traditional architecture of Lanzarote and the underground level takes advantage of the five natural volcanic bubbles adapted for habitation and linked by small corridors. It contains some of his own work and a private collection of contemporary art by artists such as Picasso, Tapies, Miro, etc. The Foundation is also a center of art and culture popularization; in an adjacent building you’ll find organized exhibitions and art conferences during the year. From here you’ll return to your ship.