International Database of Galleries | Libraries | Archives | Museums

Canary Islands Must-Visit Museums

The Canary Islands, an archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Each island offers unique museums that reflect their diverse heritage. Here are some must-visit museums in the Canary Islands:

Cobblestone courtyard with historic yellow buildings, ornate green entrance, balconies, fountain, clear sky
Casa de Colón
Founded in 1951, located in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria. This museum is dedicated to Christopher Columbus and his voyages, featuring exhibits on the explorer’s time in the Canary Islands and the islands’ role in the Age of Exploration.
Two people walking and one entering a traditional building on a sunny, calm street.
Casa Museo Cayetano Gómez Felipe
Located in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife. This museum showcases a traditional 18th-century Canarian house built in 1703 by the Irish merchant Bernard Walsh. In the 20th century, it became the family residence of collector Cayetano Gómez Felipe (Los Llanos de Aridane 1902- San Cristóbal de La Laguna 1978).
Museum with modern curved façade, arch-shaped windows, "MVSEO" sign, plants, sunny sky background
Museo Arqueológico Benahoarita
Established in 2007, located in Los Llanos de Aridane, La Palma. Focuses on the pre-Hispanic history of La Palma, with exhibits on the indigenous Benahoarita people.
White building with green doors, windows, railings, potted red flowers, and an outdoor staircase.
Museo del Campesino
Opened in 1986, located in San Bartolomé, Lanzarote. Dedicated to the agricultural heritage of Lanzarote, with exhibits on traditional farming practices, tools, and rural life.
Museo Canario
Established in 1879, located in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria. This museum focuses on the pre-Hispanic history of the Canary Islands, showcasing archaeological artifacts, mummies, and tools used by the indigenous Guanche people.
Courtyard with white walls, wooden doors, palm trees, flowering plants, and stone fireplace with pottery.
Museo César Manrique
Opened in 1982, located in Tahiche, Lanzarote. Dedicated to the life and work of the renowned Canarian artist César Manrique, featuring his artworks and the unique architecture of his former home.
Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos
Opened in 1993, located in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife. This museum combines science and astronomy, featuring interactive exhibits and a planetarium.
Hallway gallery with large framed portraits of figures in robes, dark wood floors, and wooden chests.
Museo Diocesano de Arte Sacro
It is situated in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria. This museum, housed in the Cathedral of Santa Ana, displays religious art and artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and liturgical items.
Two-story terracotta building with stone accents, wooden windows, tiled roof, and ornate stone entrance.
Museo de Historia y Antropología de Tenerife
Founded in 1993, located in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife. Focuses on the history and anthropology of Tenerife, with exhibits on the island’s social and cultural evolution.
Historic stone fortress on sandy shore with cannon and bell tower, partially reflected in water.
Museo de Historia de Arrecife
Located in Arrecife, Lanzarote. This museum focuses on the history of Arrecife and Lanzarote, featuring exhibits on the island’s geology, economy, and cultural heritage.
Open courtyard with wooden veranda, railings, columns, tiled roof, white walls, and lush garden under clear sky
Museo Insular de Bellas Artes, Ciencias Naturales y Etnografía
Established in 1977, located in Santa Cruz de La Palma, La Palma. Focuses on the cultural and natural history of La Palma, with exhibits on geology, biology, and traditional crafts.
Historic stone fort with cylindrical watchtowers by a waterfront, cobblestone pathway, clear sky
Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo
Established in 1976, located in Arrecife, Lanzarote. This museum is housed in a historic fortress and features a collection of contemporary art from the 20th century.
Large two-story historical building with arched windows, central pediment, trees, and a fence.
Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre
Opened in 1958, located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife. It features exhibits on the natural history and archaeology of the Canary Islands, including a vast collection of Guanche mummies.
Large wooden ship with masts and rigging on outdoor display, surrounded by plants and benches.
Museo Naval del Barco de la Virgen
Founded in 1975, located in Santa Cruz de La Palma, La Palma. Housed in a replica of a 15th-century ship, this museum showcases maritime history and artifacts from La Palma.
Stone fort on grassy hill with cars and people, under a partly cloudy sky background.
Museo de la Piratería
Located in Teguise, Lanzarote. Housed in a 16th-century castle, this museum showcases the history of piracy in the Canary Islands, featuring artifacts, maps, and pirate lore.
Museum exhibit of a historical tomato packaging station with wooden crates, tools, and informative panels.
Museo de la Zafra
Situated in Vecindario, Gran Canaria. Dedicated to the history of sugarcane cultivation in the Canary Islands, with exhibits on the agricultural processes, tools, and economic impact of sugar production.

The Canary Islands offer a diverse array of museums that provide insights into the archipelago’s rich history, culture, and natural environment. From maritime heritage and contemporary art to traditional crafts and natural history, these museums provide a comprehensive cultural experience for visitors.

Related Posts