Architecture And Acoustics: Stunning Music Venues In The Canary Islands

The Canary Islands might be best known for their beautiful white-sand beaches and all-year-round good weather, but their magnificence goes far beyond that. Indeed, the Canaries feature a selection of unique music venues that are waiting to be discovered by the intrepid explorer. From a mythological cave with nearby resorts in Lanzaroteto a crazy concrete hall in Tenerife, you won’t be left wanting for musical displays. Below we’ll look through three of the very best musical venues you won’t want to miss on your next holiday.

Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, Gran Canaria

Lighthouses would once have been used solely for protecting voyaging ships in the region, but this impressively restored one has a new priority as a home for fantastic music. The reinvigorated seaside structure now houses an extraordinary auditorium which is the centre for countless musical performances throughout the year. Accommodation is available in the city of Las Palmas to the west of this imposing structure. Being inside the lighthouse is a truly unique experience, with the original glass dome a striking feature at its centre. Concerts ranging from orchestras to operas are performed here through all seasons.

San Jameos Cueva de los Verdes, Lanzarote

If you thought a lighthouse was a remarkable place to house a concert hall, wait until you’ve heard about this particular delight. San Jameos Cueva is a former smugglers cave that is now home to a music hall like no other. The natural acoustics of this cave give perfect harmony to the performances, while the dramatic surroundings are visually arresting to the viewer. Notably, lighting has been carefully constructed to provide an almost surreal experience for attendees.

Music fans of all persuasions are welcome here with numerous different acts performing every week. In particular, visitors are recommended to come for the local traditional music nights, when the culture of the islands can be enjoyed in truly astonishing surroundings. There are plenty of nearby resorts in Lanzarote that make a perfect base for music-loving holidaymakers who wish to explore this very special venue.

Adan Martin Auditorio de Tenerife, Tenerife

Many commentators call this music venue the 'Sydney Opera House of Europe” and it's easy to see why. The building follows similar architectural principles of sweeping curves all while following strict uniformity. In many ways, it is as though a series of waves have leapt out of the sea and been solidified in concrete all at once.

This music hall is once again dedicated to a plurality of tastes, shown in the sheer mix of genres provided throughout the year. If you’re unlucky enough not to find a perfomance you’re interested in while you’re visiting (and that would be very unlucky!) then a guided tour of the theatre is available during daylight hours. This is highly recommended to anyone interested in learning the thoughts of the architect through a knowledgeable local expert and also to admire the expanse of the concert hall itself.

All these unique music venues provide yet another reason why the Canary Islands should be your next holiday destination. The beauty of the region and its fabulous resorts in Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Tenerife are just waiting to be discovered. 

Author Plate

John Dixon is an experienced world traveller and the Managing Director of Prestige Holidays. For over 30 years, he has been providing holidays to luxury resorts in Lanzarote, Bermuda, Croatia and many other destinations around the globe. John tries to visit each of the destinations regularly in order to ensure the quality of his properties, and stay up-to-date about the latest local news and events. He has a taste for the finer things in life and has an interest in arts, history and culture.