Mancha Blanca: Volcanism, Trails and Culture

Volcanism and religious tradition are two defining themes of Mancha Blanca. The eruptions from 1730 to 1736 form the backdrop to parts of the local history and landscape; at the same time, the Ruta Termesana passes through an area of the park with volcanic formations. The Romería de los Dolores and other recurring festivals add a cultural perspective. When planning, the approximate duration of the guided route and the need to register in advance are especially important.

Volcanic Landscape and Visitor Centre

The permanent exhibition at the Centro de Visitantes e Interpretación de Mancha Blanca covers volcanism in the Canary Islands and Timanfaya, as well as local flora, fauna and coastline. Audiovisual panels, models and complementary activities present the natural and cultural values of this area; the educational programme activities are aimed at school groups.

A raised walkway provides a circuit over lava flows that reached agricultural land during the eruptions from 1730 to 1736. The visitor centre is adapted for people with limited mobility or impaired vision. If you rely on these adaptations, confirm the specific conditions before your visit.

Ruta Termesana and Other Hiking Trails

The Ruta Termesana passes through an area of the park with various formations created by recent volcanism. The route explains their dynamics and geomorphology; it also covers colonisation by lichens and traditional farming in the surrounding area. Alongside the geological formations, the focus is also on how they change and how the surrounding area is used.

The guided walk is about two kilometres long, is of very low difficulty and takes approximately three hours. Participation requires registering in person or by telephone in advance. Check the registration options and operating days again before your trip. Several hiking trails also start in Mancha Blanca; up-to-date information about the specific routes will help with your planning.

Ermita de Los Dolores: History and Architecture

The Ermita de Los Dolores and its cistern are protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Monument category. Another site, protected as a historic site, is the place where the lava from the eruptions of 1730 to 1736 came to a halt. A teak cross marks this place. The protection designations were established by Decree 82/2003.

The Ermita was built in connection with the eruptions as a collective vow made by the people of Tinajo to the Virgin Mary. The volcanic connection is also reflected in the materials used: the portal, oculus and side buttresses are made of volcanic rock from the surrounding area. The history and architectural design offer different insights into the significance of the site.

Romería and Annual Festivities

The Romería de los Dolores is part of the annual religious calendar. The procession begins in Tinajo and ends at the Ermita de los Dolores in Mancha Blanca. People from across Lanzarote and the rest of the archipelago take part in traditional dress. Local snacks and music played on timples, guitars and chácaras are part of the procession.

The Feria Insular de Artesanía de Mancha Blanca takes place as part of the celebrations of Nuestra Señora de los Volcanes and brings together craftspeople from across the archipelago. Nuestra Señora de Los Dolores is celebrated on 15 September. 31 July, when the eruptions of 1824 began, is known as Día del Volcán. If you would like to plan your trip around one of these traditions, check the dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: La Santa, El Cuchillo, La Vegueta

Return to the main travel overview: Tinajo.