In addition to traditional folk festivals, Lanzarote offers several other cultural events, such as the “Malpaís” Performing Arts Festival in Arrecife, as well as the Lanzarote Film Festival.
Here are some of the cultural venues to visit:
– César Manrique Foundation is headquartered in a spectacular dwelling designed by César Manrique himself upon his return from New York City, when he decided to locate permanently at Lanzarote. This 3 000 square metre building engages in constant dialogue with the natural surrounds on its 30 000-square metre lot and beyond. Here, volcano and architecture blend in mutual respect. Visitors to this house built in a sea of lava are guaranteed a unique experience.
– The International Contemporary Art Museum-Castillo de San José is located in Arrecife. César Manrique convinced the authorities of the island to transform the ancient fortress into an art gallery, and the International Contemporary Art Museum opened in 1976. Nowadays you can admire work of artists like Francis Francis Bacon, Antoni Tàpies or Eduardo Chillida.
– The former Centro Polidimensional “El Almacén”, was conceived in 1974 by artist César Manrique for contemporary cultural activities at all different levels. Here . you can find fine arts, performances, audiovisuals, literary, etc. And as intended, it became an essential role model for culture in Arrecife, Lanzarote.
– The Pirate Museum or Museo de la Piratería is situated within the Santa Bárbara castle perched on the top of mount Guanapay in Teguise, the old capital of Lanzarote.The castle of Santa Bárbara is fascinating, the views are incredible and it’s easy to see why the position was chosen. Primarily as a look out tower before an extension was added to give safe shelter to the locals during an attack. There is a wealth of information available throughout the castle’s rooms with video, information screens and posters explaining the history of the pirates within the Canary Islands.
