Chinamada

Nestled within the Anaga Rural Park in the north of Tenerife, Chinamada is a picturesque hamlet renowned for its extraordinary troglodyte dwellings, where inhabitants have carved homes directly into the volcanic rock—a tradition that dates back to the original Guanche peoples before the Spanish conquest of the Canaries in the late 15th century. Today, these unique cave houses are still inhabited, preserving centuries-old architectural techniques and offering a glimpse into the island’s ancient ways of life. The remote location of Chinamada, accessible by winding hiking paths through dramatic ravines, played a strategic role throughout history, providing shelter during pirate attacks that threatened the region during the 16th and 17th centuries. The hamlet is celebrated for its connection to the preservation of endemic flora, including laurisilva forests that once blanketed much of Macaronesia. Chinamada’s small church, built in the mid-20th century, stands as a testament to the enduring resilience and cultural identity of its inhabitants. Visitors are drawn to the area for its spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and its historical trails, many of which follow ancient aboriginal routes used for trade and pastoral activities. Chinamada’s enduring traditions make it a living relic of the Canary Islands’ layered and fascinating history.