In the summer of 2013, the private residence of the architect César Manrique was opened to the public on the island of Lanzarote. Manrique was born in Lanzarote and lived on the island for many years, playing a large role in instigating planning regulations to prevent mass infrastructure and the building of holiday resorts during the tourist boom of the 60s. Sustainability and safeguarding the natural heritage were important ideals to him, something he makes clear in his art works and building structures. His input in this respect was instrumental to the declaration of Lanzarote as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the 1990s.
Much of Manrique's legacy as a painter, sculptor, architect and designer is prevalent throughout the island: sculptures and artwork as well as the Jameos del Agua and other public attractions draw tourists. His former residence near Teguise is the seat of the César Manrique Foundation. This fantastic place was built over a volcanic trail, using the volcanic bubbles to form an unusual natural living space. It also houses a museum and art gallery and was donated to the Foundation by Manrique in the 1980s.
Manrique's final residence, situated in the village of Haría towards the north of the island, was opened to the public in 2013 and provides an intimate and personal view of this unique artist's last home. Manrique died suddenly in a car crash in 1992 and the house and his garden studio have been left as they were. You can wander through the different rooms and see the surprising architecture and the unique rooms and bathrooms! As you explore, you are able to see Manrique's private artefacts and memories, the contents of his home and the interesting furniture. In the garden which is planted with palms, is Manrique's workshop filed with unfinished paintings and drawings that have been conserved.
The home is easily reachable by local bus or by car if you have it. Various holiday properties, including Santa Rosa provide exclusive tours as well. It is open throughout the week from 10.30am to 2.30pm, for more information check here.
The house is only a short distance from the town centre of Haría, so though there aren't any refreshments on the site, there is a good selection of local bars and restaurants nearby to stop at for a bite to eat. Saturday is an especially good day to visit because that is the day of Haría's Artisan market, which appears in the town centre weekly.
To find out how to stay in our fantastic property on Lanzarote, follow the link below.
