Arico: Historic Townscape and Church Art

If you are looking for a hotel in Arico, the historic townscape of Arico el Nuevo can be a useful thematic starting point. The town is designated as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the category of Conjunto Histórico. This designation classifies Arico el Nuevo as a historic ensemble; the features of individual buildings and the church art add specific details to this perspective. This can help you consider whether you are particularly interested in historic townscapes, architecture or sacred art.

Local History and Chronology

Arico el Nuevo emerged in the 18th century, when residents from the surrounding area were drawn by the water springs found there. The springs thus help explain the town’s origins. When considering the chronology, it is helpful to distinguish between the founding of the town and the construction of its churches: the town is dated to the 18th century, while the two churches described here were built at the end of the 17th century. These details refer to different aspects and together provide a nuanced picture of the town’s history.

Architecture in the Historic Town Centre

Many buildings in the historic town centre have one or two storeys and feature courtyards and elaborately worked stonework. These features can be viewed from different angles: the number of storeys describes the building form, courtyards the spatial layout, and stonework the craftsmanship. If you are interested in architecture, these recurring details offer a way to explore the townscape that goes beyond looking at individual churches. Both the form of the buildings and the working of the stone are central.

Churches and Works of Art

The Iglesia de San Bartolomé brings together different art-historical references. The church houses a sculpture of John the Baptist from the Sevillian school of the 17th century, attributed to Martín de Andújar. The image of Saint Bartholomew, after whom the church is named, is by contrast the work of Domingo de Campos and dates to 1691. Different details are therefore important when comparing them: for the sculpture, the artistic school and attribution; for the image, the artist and date. This makes it possible to distinguish two works in the same church by subject and historical context.

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Luz is also part of the cultural heritage of Arico el Nuevo. Like the Iglesia de San Bartolomé, it was built at the end of the 17th century. Both churches can therefore be placed in their historical context; the specific works of art described are associated with San Bartolomé. This distinction between church construction and the specifically named works of art may help you weigh up your interests.

Bus Stop Information for Planning

The bus stop information for ARICO EL NUEVO (7845) lists route 36, with Güímar as its destination. If you would like to factor this connection into your travel plans, check the timetable before setting off: live traffic information can change. The route details add practical information to the cultural points of interest without specifying a particular departure time. Taken together, the townscape, building history, churches and transport information can help you weigh up your interests for a stay in Arico.

Discover more destinations: Las Aguas, El Rio, Acojeja, Garachico, Tegueste, Santa Cruz De Tenerife, Los Carrizales, Arico Viejo

For the main travel overview: Tenerife.