History of Tenerife

Tenerife has a very rich and interesting history, as it has been ruled by different nations throughout the centuries. Before the Spanish domination, the island was controlled by some small kingdoms, whose inhabitants were know as Guanches. Between 1494 and 1496 the area was attacked by the Spanish military governor, and in spite of strong local resistance, Spanish finally took control over the island.

After conquering Tenerife, the Spaniards had under their dominance all the Canary Islands. The small number of native inhabitants of the spot who survived the attacks died because of diseases. Spanish people decided to change the character of the island and cleared the local pine forests in order to grow sugarcane. Additionally, the strategic location of Tenerife made the area a perfect final spot for the Spanish ships traveling to America and the New World. The next two centuries to come made the island an agricultural center supplying ships with food.

The strategic location of Tenerife was also noticed by other countries which tried to conquer the area over the centuries. In 1797, the British command of Admiral Lord Nelson attacked the capital of the island, but his attempt was unsuccessful. The second British trial was also a failure, as the Santiago Valley inhabitants strongly defended its land.

In the recent times the place was not attacked and it started to be truly admired and appreciated  by people from different countries. The island became so popular in the 1890’s, as lots of visitors chose it as their favorite winter resort. Fantastic weather, as well as a set of useful facilities make Tenerife a perfect relaxation spot.

The last serious historical event in Tenerife took place in 1936 when Francisco Franco was sent by the Spanish Republican government. His collaboration in the island resulted in the Spanish Civil War. As a consequence of the fights most of the Canary Islands inhabitants lost their lives in massive executions performed by the nationalists. After these events a lot of islanders emigrated to Cuba and Latin America.

Today the island is a very peaceful and quiet spot, which offers numerous natural attractions, entertainment facilities, and what’s most important marvelous relaxing and sunbathing conditions. It is one of the highly appreciated tourist resorts, as lots of visitors come to the island in order to rest, calm down, feel real contact with nature, as well as experience incredible hospitality of Tenerife inhabitants.