Plaza de La Glorieta

La Glorieta is an artist's work rather than a conventional square: it was designed by the La Palma painter Luis Morera and built between 1993 and 1996, with César Manrique taking part in the approach. Ceramic mosaic runs over pergolas, benches and low walls, so almost every built surface is covered in coloured tesserae. At the centre there is a stage of volcanic stone used for performances and open air events. The vegetation is not simply ornamental, since it was planted with Canarian endemic species.

It stands in the Cuatro Caminos district of Los Llanos de Aridane, in the Aridane valley, and can be walked in a short while, although the detail of the mosaic rewards a slower look. Anyone wanting to follow the imagery can ask for a guided visit, because many of the figures refer to the culture and the nature of La Palma. It pairs well with a walk through the centre of Los Llanos, which is a short distance away on foot. The square is fully open to the sky, so the middle of the day in summer is hard going and it is better enjoyed in the morning or late in the afternoon.