The spiritual heart of the city, this brooding, grey cathedral was begun in the early 15th century, soon after the Spanish conquest, but took 350 years to complete. The neoclassical facade contrasts with the interior, which is a fine example of what some art historians have named Atlantic Gothic, with lofty columns that seem to mimic the palm trees outside. There are also several paintings by Juan de Miranda, the islands’ most-respected 18th-century artist.
The ticket also includes entrance to the sacred art museum, set on two levels around the Patio de los Naranjos. It contains a fairly standard collection of religious art and memorabilia, including centuries-old manuscripts, wooden sculptures and other ornaments, but the setting is lovely – and fragrant, with the scent of orange blossom in springtime.
Once you've explored within, take the lift (admission €1.50) to the top of the bell tower for a stunning wide-angle view of the surrounding city and its coast.
