Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín — Attraction in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

I recently had the opportunity to admire the Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, one of the most iconic architectural landmarks in the Canary Islands. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to visit the interior as it was closed at the time, but even from the outside, the structure makes a striking impression.

Designed by the renowned Santiago Calatrava, the building rises like a sculptural wave on the Santa Cruz waterfront—dramatic, futuristic, and undeniably photogenic. Its bold silhouette stands as a powerful symbol of cultural ambition and modernity, offering a sense of movement and elegance that’s rare in civic architecture.

That said, I must express a slight concern. Upon closer inspection, I couldn’t help but notice signs of premature wear and deterioration. Whether it’s due to the materials used or the harshness of the maritime climate, some areas seem to have aged more quickly than one might expect from such a monumental project. It left me with the impression that perhaps more durable materials or maintenance protocols could have better preserved the integrity of the structure.

Nonetheless, the Auditorio remains an aesthetic triumph—a place that inspires awe and curiosity. I sincerely hope to return for a performance soon and experience the acoustics and atmosphere that so many have praised. Even from the outside, this building is a must-see for architecture lovers and anyone...

Auditorio de Tenerife is an impressive building gracing the otherwise not a very beautiful architecturally city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It is designed by the same architect who built a similar complex in Valencia - Santiago Calatrava. Hence many similarities, from being very impressive visually but not very practical inside. Obviously the edifice is stunning, with the glorious position on the sea shore. However there is no elevator from the parking underneath to the entrance floor. There are great distances to walk which is somewhat inconvenient for the rushed atmosphere of the concert hall. Bathroom is only one, so then huge lines. Why in a modern building? The design clearly has preference for the looks. Inside the acoustics is good. But again further rows are too far from the stage, with the traditional circular design of a theater being abandoned for the movie theater concept which is not appropriate for the classical music. Parking in the underneath garage is plentiful and inexpensive. The buffet is adequate. The concert programme in 2024 is great but that is not really a building's feat. Overall definitely a place to see and certainly to attend a concert. The atmosphere is very civil, the public is nice and...

No complaints. Parking only 0.7E per hr, underneath, a deal in this crowded town. Gratis entry. Stunning building, wide open, but accessible. Giant open doors at south end, great little cafe/sweet shop, lots of folks sipping and taking in the scene. View of water, some old historic ruin (gunpowder storage, not open), hill with palm trees, sea. Very nice. Also, great WCs inside, seating inside as well, comfortable benches.

The architecture is super modern, that slick, shiny, curvy, knife-sharp look. But... walking around the curved stairs, curved and tapered walls is tricky. And no seating facing the water, none at all. The giant "claw" is functionless and seems silly to me (but it's modern, so all matter of taste). Very nice scale model inside describes it all. Nice surprise is the images and names of artists, old and new, on the rocks. Very creative!

IF you have time, park, stop by for a visit, walk, coffee, and for...