Tumba de Amaro Pargo

Tumba de Amaro Pargo – Tenerife, Canary Islands

Overview

The Tumba de Amaro Pargo (Tomb of Amaro Pargo) is one of the most intriguing historical sites in Tenerife, located in the Church of Santo Domingo in La Laguna. Amaro Rodríguez Felipe y Tejera Machado, better known as Amaro Pargo, was an infamous 17th- and 18th-century Spanish corsair—often called the “Canarian pirate.” Wealthy, feared, and controversial, he became a legendary figure in the Canary Islands for his exploits on the seas, where he raided enemy ships under the Spanish crown. His tomb has become a point of interest not only for history enthusiasts but also for those drawn to legends of treasure, piracy, and mystery that surround his life and death.

Why Visit

• See the final resting place of Tenerife’s most famous corsair, Amaro Pargo
• Explore the Church of Santo Domingo, a historic religious landmark in La Laguna
• Learn about the pirate legends, fortunes, and controversies surrounding Amaro Pargo
• Immerse yourself in the colonial history of the Canary Islands
• Combine a cultural visit with the charm of La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Highlights

• The Tomb: Marked with a slab bearing Amaro Pargo’s name, the tomb is a simple yet evocative memorial
• Church of Santo Domingo: A 17th-century Dominican convent where the corsair chose his final resting place
• Legends of Treasure: Tales persist of hidden riches buried somewhere in Tenerife, fueling the pirate’s mystique
• Local Folklore: Stories of Pargo’s dual life as both a pious man and a ruthless corsair
• UNESCO Setting: Located in La Laguna, a beautifully preserved colonial city with cobbled streets and historic architecture

History & Cultural Significance

Amaro Pargo (1678–1747) rose from modest beginnings in La Laguna to become one of Spain’s most successful privateers. Licensed by the Spanish crown, he attacked ships belonging to rival powers, especially the English and Dutch, and amassed a considerable fortune. His life has fascinated historians because of his contradictions: while feared as a pirate, he was also a devout Catholic and benefactor of religious institutions. He funded chapels, helped the poor, and maintained ties with Sister María de Jesús, a revered nun from Tenerife. His tomb reflects this dual legacy—pirate and philanthropist. Today, his story is central to Tenerife’s maritime history and cultural identity.

Typical Costs & Tickets

Visiting the Tumba de Amaro Pargo is included with entry to the Church of Santo Domingo, which is often free or charges a small donation of €1–€2. Guided tours of La Laguna may include the tomb as part of a broader exploration of the city’s religious and historical landmarks, usually priced between €10–€20 per person. Since the site is relatively small, many visitors choose to include it as part of a walking tour of La Laguna’s UNESCO-listed historic center.

Best Time to Visit

The tomb can be visited year-round as part of the church. La Laguna enjoys a mild subtropical climate, making it pleasant in any season. Weekday mornings are the best time to visit, when the church is quiet and easier to explore at leisure. Visiting during La Laguna’s cultural festivals, such as Corpus Christi, allows travelers to combine the tomb visit with broader celebrations of Canarian heritage.

Nearby Experiences

The Church of Santo Domingo sits in La Laguna, a city brimming with colonial history and cultural attractions. Nearby highlights include the La Laguna Cathedral, the History and Anthropology Museum of Tenerife, and the Casa de los Capitanes. Strolling the cobblestoned streets reveals colorful mansions, plazas, and local cafés. Beyond La Laguna, visitors can explore San Cristóbal de La Laguna’s UNESCO World Heritage district or venture into the lush landscapes of the Anaga Rural Park, a short drive away.

Travel Tips

• Check the church’s opening hours before visiting, as they can vary
• Combine your visit with a guided walking tour of La Laguna for deeper context
• Read up on Amaro Pargo’s history beforehand—the site is more impactful with his story in mind
• Be respectful inside the church, which remains an active place of worship
• Bring a camera—La Laguna’s historic district offers excellent photo opportunities

Fun Facts & Local Legends

• Amaro Pargo was sometimes called the “Spanish Blackbeard,” though unlike pirates, he operated legally as a privateer
• Legends persist of buried treasure in Tenerife, supposedly hidden by Pargo during his seafaring days
• In 2013, his tomb was opened as part of a forensic investigation, fueling public curiosity about his life and death
• His friendship with Sister María de Jesús, later beatified by the Catholic Church, added to his enigmatic reputation