Jameos del Agua, Costa Teguise

Nestled in the volcanic landscape of Lanzarote, Spain, Jameos del Agua offers a truly unique experience for visitors to the city of Costa Teguise. This enchanting tourist attraction is a harmonious blend of nature and human creativity, where art and geology intertwine to create a magical destination.

Jameos del Agua is a series of lava caves, formed by the eruption of the Monte Corona volcano around 3,000 years ago. A "jameo" is formed when a tunnel ceiling collapses, revealing a section of the cave. The most famous part of this natural wonder is a subterranean saltwater lagoon that is home to a unique species of blind albino crabs, which are found nowhere else on Earth.

The transformation of this natural wonder into a tourist attraction is credited to the visionary Lanzarote-born artist and architect César Manrique. In the 1960s, Manrique saw the potential of these caves and set about creating a space where visitors could appreciate the beauty of the natural world alongside man-made art. His work integrated the caves with gardens, a pool, a concert hall, and an auditorium, all designed to complement the volcanic landscape.

The centerpiece of Jameos del Agua is the lagoon itself, which is visible from a restaurant and a series of terraces, offering a serene spot to dine or simply relax. The caves also house a museum, the Casa de los Volcanes, which provides educational insight into the volcanic origins of the Canary Islands and the geological significance of the site.

The auditorium, with its natural acoustics, is a venue for music concerts and cultural events, adding to the allure of Jameos del Agua as a place where nature and culture meet. The space is a testament to Manrique's philosophy of integrating art with the environment, making it a must-visit location for those interested in both natural wonders and architectural beauty.

Visitors to Jameos del Agua should be prepared to walk through uneven and sometimes damp surfaces, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The site is open to the public throughout the week, but it's advisable to check the opening hours before planning a visit, as they can vary seasonally.