White chapel facade with wooden door and small bell tower. CanaryIslands, CC BY-SA 4.0

El Rosario, Tenerife

Canary Islands

17,958Population
39.43 km²Area
905 mElevation
38290Postal code

El Rosario is a municipality located in the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands. Known for its diverse geography, it ranges from the highlands of La Esperanza to the coastal areas of Tabaiba, forming part of the metropolitan area of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

02Geography

El Rosario is situated in the northeastern part of Tenerife, bordered by several municipalities including Santa Cruz de Tenerife and San Cristóbal de La Laguna. The municipality covers an area of 39.43 km² and has an average elevation of 754 m above sea level. Its varied topography includes forested areas, agricultural zones, and coastal regions, contributing to its unique ecological landscape.

Distance to coast
Approximately 5 km
Protected areas
Part of the landscape protected area of Las Lagunetas
Elevation range
From 0 to 1000 m
Climate
Subtropical with mild temperatures

03History

The region has been inhabited since Guanche times and was part of the kingdom of Güímar. European colonization began in the 16th century, with the establishment of a hermitage dedicated to La Esperanza. El Rosario was officially recognized as a municipality in 1813, with La Esperanza as its capital.

El Rosario, a municipality in Tenerife, features diverse geography from highlands to coastlines and a rich cultural heritage.

04Economy and Daily Life

El Rosario's economy is primarily based on agriculture and services, with a notable decline in traditional farming practices. The municipality is recognized for its high per capita income, attributed to its agricultural output, particularly in potato and wine production, alongside a growing service sector.

05Cultural Heritage

El Rosario boasts a rich cultural heritage, with several notable landmarks and festivals. The municipality is home to various historical sites, including churches and traditional agricultural markets, reflecting its unique identity and community spirit.

El Rosario, Tenerife · Data
Province
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Autonomous community
Canary Islands
Population
17,958
Area
39.43 km²
Elevation
905 m
Postal code
38290
Website
http://www.ayuntamientoelrosario.org/
Coordinates
28.4328, -16.3682

Photos

Stone ruins with cacti in the foreground.
Ruins of pirate Amaro Pargo's house in Machaco, Tenerife, surrounded by cacti and vegetation.

Frequently asked questions

White chapel facade with wooden door and small bell tower.

What is the Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Rosario?

The Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Rosario is a historic chapel located in Machado, Tenerife. Built in the late 18th century, it serves as a significant religious site and is dedicated to the patron saint of the municipality, the Virgin of the Rosary. The chapel is recognized for its cultural importance and is classified as a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC).

Sights Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Rosario

Stone ruins with cacti in the foreground.

What can you tell me about the Casa de Amaro Pargo?

The Casa de Amaro Pargo, located in Machado, is a historical site associated with the famous corsair Amaro Pargo. The ruins of this house reflect the area's rich maritime history and are classified as a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC). It offers a glimpse into the past and the life of this notable figure in Tenerife's history.

History Casa de Amaro Pargo

What are the main agricultural products grown in El Rosario?

El Rosario's agriculture is diverse, with potatoes being the dominant crop, especially in the higher areas. Other significant crops include grapes, particularly in the areas between 650 and 900 meters above sea level. The region also produces various fruits like plums and pears, primarily for local consumption.

Food & drink For residents

Are there any protected natural areas in El Rosario?

Yes, El Rosario contains part of the protected natural area known as Las Lagunetas, which is designated as a Special Conservation Area and a Special Protection Area for Birds under the Natura 2000 network. This area supports diverse flora and fauna and is essential for conservation efforts.

Nature For residents

What is the significance of the Virgen del Rosario in the municipality?

The Virgen del Rosario is the patron saint of El Rosario, and the municipality is named in her honor. She plays an important role in the local culture and religious practices, with various celebrations and events dedicated to her throughout the year, especially on her feast day.

Festivals & events

What kind of outdoor activities can I do in El Rosario?

El Rosario offers various outdoor activities, particularly hiking and water sports. The area is known for its scenic trails in the forests and along the coast, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the coastal areas around Radazul provide opportunities for diving and sailing.

Nature

How has the population of El Rosario changed over time?

El Rosario has experienced significant population changes, particularly due to administrative adjustments in the 1970s that resulted in the loss of a large portion of its population. From a peak of about 15,783 inhabitants in 1970, the population decreased to approximately 5,870 after the territorial cession, but has since grown to around 17,958 as of 2025.

Living there For residents

What local festivals are celebrated in El Rosario?

El Rosario hosts several local festivals, with notable celebrations on the Tuesday of Carnival and August 4th, honoring Nuestra Señora de La Esperanza. These events are marked by traditional activities, music, and community gatherings, reflecting the vibrant local culture.

Festivals & events

What is the main economic activity in El Rosario?

The economy of El Rosario is primarily based on agriculture and services. While agriculture has declined over the years, it remains significant, especially in the higher regions where crops like potatoes and grapes are cultivated. The municipality is also known for its rich natural resources, contributing to the local economy.

Living there For residents

What is the landscape like in El Rosario?

El Rosario features a diverse landscape, ranging from the coastal areas of Tabaiba to the forested highlands of La Esperanza. The municipality includes agricultural plains and mountainous regions, with significant biodiversity, including pine forests and unique flora in the protected areas.

Nature

Map

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Own text, written with AI assistance from the facts in Wikipedia · El Rosario, Tenerife · Data: Wikidata Q176624 · Photos: Wikimedia Commons, see individual licenses. · CC BY-SA 4.0