Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios

Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios is the main parish church of Buenavista del Norte, a town at the northwestern tip of Tenerife, right at the gateway to the Teno cliffs. Standing in the heart of the historic center, it has been the town's religious and visual landmark for more than five centuries.

How do you get there?

The church sits on Calle La Alhóndiga, facing the square that shares its name, Plaza de los Remedios. It's right in the middle of the old town, so the easiest way to visit is on foot after parking or getting off a bus along the north coast road. Buenavista del Norte also lies on the main route toward the Los Gigantes de Teno cliffs and the Punta de Teno viewpoint, so many visitors stop at the church as part of a longer day trip through this corner of the island.

What's the history behind the church?

Construction began in 1513, and just five years later, in 1518, the first mass was celebrated inside. The church has carried the name of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, patron saint of Buenavista del Norte, from the very start, built in her honor. Over the following centuries the building underwent several alterations to keep pace with the needs of a growing parish.

The most dramatic chapter in its history came in 1996, when a fire severely damaged the interior, destroying a large part of what was then the town's most valuable historical and artistic heritage. Among the losses was the original image of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, dating back to 1733. A year after the fire it was replaced with a new sculpture by Cádiz-born artist Luis González Rey, which still holds pride of place in the main chapel today.

What will you see inside?

The interior is laid out across three naves, separated by semicircular arches resting on columns and pilasters topped with Tuscan capitals. The layout is completed by a main chapel and five side chapels, making the floor plan one of the more elaborate along this stretch of Tenerife's coast. Outside, the main entrance draws the eye — built in stone and framed by Corinthian columns, it's the facade's most striking feature.

When is the best time to visit?

Pair a visit to the church with a stroll through Buenavista del Norte's historic center — a quiet, low-key town that sees far fewer crowds than the resorts on the island's south side. Morning hours are ideal for taking in the square and surrounding streets before heading on toward the Teno cliffs or the village of Masca. Since it's an active parish, it's worth checking local opening times beforehand, as access depends on the schedule of masses and services.

Frequently asked questions

How old is the church in Buenavista del Norte? It was built between 1513 and 1518, with the first mass held that same year, making it one of the older religious landmarks on the island.

What happened in 1996? A fire severely damaged the church's interior, destroying the original 18th-century image of the town's patron saint, which was replaced a year later by a new sculpture by Luis González Rey.

Who is the patron saint of Buenavista del Norte? The town's patron saint is Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, whose name is shared by both the church and the adjoining square.

Where exactly is the church located? It stands on Calle La Alhóndiga, facing Plaza de los Remedios, right in the historic center of Buenavista del Norte, at the northwestern tip of Tenerife.