Cave of the Guanches

The Cave of the Guanches is a significant archaeological site located in the northern part of Tenerife, Canary Islands, within the municipality of Icod de los Vinos. This site is renowned for being one of the earliest known Guanche settlements on the island, dating back to the 6th century BCE. Situated at 125 meters above sea level on a cliff, the area was once a village comprised of natural caves and huts. Notably, the site includes a rare secondary burial pit, reflecting unique funerary practices of the Guanche people. Archaeological findings such as pottery shards, bone tools, and marine shells provide insights into the daily life and culture of the Guanches. Many of these artefacts are preserved in the Museo Guanche and the British Museum. The site is recognized as a Site of Cultural Interest, highlighting its importance in understanding the pre-Hispanic history of the Canary Islands.