Candelaria is the major pilgrimage site of the Canary Islands. Its basilica houses the Virgin of Candelaria, patroness of the Canary Islands, venerated since the 14th century. The seafront square is lined with nine bronze statues of the last Guanche kings — the ancient inhabitants of the island — creating a unique place of memory. Less touristy than beach resorts, Candelaria attracts mainly Spanish and Latin American pilgrims.
To know: August 14-15 (Assumption Day) and February 2 (patron saint's day) attract tens of thousands of pilgrims. Extraordinary atmosphere but intense crowds.