Puntos de Interés
Municipality
Fuencaliente de La Palma
Fuencaliente de La Palma is a charming Spanish municipality located at the southern end of the island of La Palma, hugging the Atlantic coast, witihn the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, in the Canary Islands. It borders Los Llanos de Aridane to the north and El Paso to the east. The municipal capital is Los Canarios, although Las Indias stands out as one of its most populated nuclei, together with the neighbourhoods of Los Quemados, Las Caletas, La Fajana and the hamlet of El Charco. Formerly a district of the municipality of Villa de Mazo, Fuencaliente was established as an independent municipality at a later date.
The name "Fuencaliente” comes from the ‘hot springs’ that abound in the region, fed by the hydrothermal system that underlies the island. This name reflects the natural and geothermal richness that distinguishes the area, creating a historical link with its natural resources. The history of Fuencaliente is intertwined with the Spanish colonisation in the 15th century. Since then, it has undergone significant changes, consolidating itself as a place rich in cultural and economic heritage. The cultural heritage of Fuencaliente can be seen in its colonial architecture, with the imposing Church of San Antonio, built in the 17th century, standing out.
In the natural environment, Fuencaliente is famed for the Cumbre Vieja Natural Park, a haven of biodiversity and volcanic landscapes. The Fuencaliente salt flats are another iconic site, combining the salt-producing tradition with environmental conservation, creating a unique site of tourist interest. Other places of interest include the majestic San Antonio volcano, which offers panoramic views of the island, and the lighthouses of Fuencaliente, witnesses to the island’s maritime history.
The local economy is based on agriculture, with banana plantations and vineyards the mainstays. Fishing and nature tourism such as hiking, diving and cycling also play key roles, generating income and promoting the economic sustainability of the municipality.
The Fiesta de la Vendimia, the grape harvest festival, is an important event in the municipality celebrated since the 19th century, with cultural and sporting events, parades of floats, traditional dances such as that of the Caballos Fuscos, and tastings of local wines and gastronomy. The patron saint festivities are held in honour of San Antonio Abad, where various local events celebrating Canarian culture and tradition take place, including include live music, folk dancing, fairs and activities for the whole family. The Pino de La Virgen festival is another local highlight, with pilgrimages, traditional events and large community meals. In July comes the Pino de Santo Domingo festival with music, traditions and community meals. Also in July are the Fiestas de la Virgen del Carmen with a maritime procession and festive events.
The gastronomy of Fuencaliente reflects the richness of the local produce and the Canarian culinary tradition, and pairs especially well with the wines of Fuencaliente, a sub-zone of the Designation of Origin of La Palma. Thanks to its coastal location, Fuencaliente offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood which together with local agricultural products such as potatoes, cheese, avocados and bananas, enhance the flavour of traditional dishes.