Spain, Lanzarote, Arrecife, Puente de las Bolas in front of Castillo San Gabriel

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Castillo de San Gabriel

Arrecife


On a little islet just off the seafront promenade, reached via the 18th-century Puente de las Bolas or a more recent Franco-era bridge, the 16th-century Castillo de San Gabriel was originally built to fend off pirate attacks. Today it holds the Museo de Historia de Arrecife, with Spanish-language exhibits on the island's geology, flora and fauna as well as pre-Hispanic life, the Spanish conquest and the capital's history.

Climb to the battlements for sweeping views across Arrecife.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Arrecife attractions

1. Casa Amarilla

0.18 MILES

This handsome mustard-yellow, tile-walled 1920s building was once the headquarters of Lanzarote's Cabildo; it now hosts rotating exhibitions.

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In the green-shuttered former Parador building, right on the seafront, this university library conceals four wonderful early César Manrique murals,…

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0.32 MILES

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6. Charco de San Ginés

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7. Playa del Reducto

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If you fancy a dip, the city’s main beach is lovely: an arc of pristine pale-gold sand fringed with lofty palm trees and a promenade. It's safe for…

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