Guanches in Tenerife

The Guanches (Guanchas) are the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, including Tenerife, who inhabited the islands before the Spanish conquest in the 15th century. Here are some interesting facts about this fascinating culture:

1. origin and culture

• Berber roots: The Guanches are believed to have descended from the North African Berbers, as confirmed by genetic studies. They arrived on the islands around 1000 BC.
• Living in isolation: They lived in isolation from the outside world for hundreds of years, which made their culture develop in unique ways.

2. caves instead of houses

The Guanches lived mainly in natural caves, which provided protection from the sun and wind. These caves are now the subject of archaeological research.

3. silbo Gomero – the language of whistles

Although the Silbo Gomero language is more associated with the island of La Gomera, there is evidence that the Guanches used similar communication techniques using whistles to communicate over long distances.

4. mummification of the dead

The Guanches used mummification techniques similar to those used by the ancient Egyptians. Their mummies, found on Tenerife, testify to their advanced knowledge of preserving bodies.

5. religious beliefs

• Nature deities: The Guanches worshipped deities associated with nature, including Chaxiraxi (sun goddess) and Magec (deity of light and the sun).
• Sacred Mount Teide: They considered the Teide volcano a sacred place where they believed the demon Guayota resided.

6. fighting style – lucha canaria

The traditional Canarian style of wrestling, lucha canaria, has its roots in the fighting techniques used by the Guanches. It was a form of competition and preparation for warriors.

7. conquest by the Spanish

The Spanish conquest of Tenerife in 1496 ended the Guanches’ period of domination. Despite resistance, many were killed in battles or taken captive.

8. genetic heritage

Modern Canary Islanders still carry genetic traces of the Guanches, research on mitochondrial DNA shows.

9 Mysterious inscriptions

Inscriptions in the Guanch language have been found on Tenerife, which have not been fully deciphered to this day. They probably used a simplified alphabet resembling the Libyan-Berber script.

10. heritage in the culture of the Canary Islands

The Guanch heritage is cherished on the islands in traditions, festivals and local culture. Especially during festivals such as Romerías, one can see the influence of ancient beliefs and rituals.

The Guanches remain one of the most interesting examples of an isolated community whose culture continues to delight researchers today. You can learn more about the history of the Guanches during our tours with a licensed guide in Polish.

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