Tenerife’s Green Oasis: Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja

As I wandered through the lush greenery of Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder.

Commissioned by Sebastiana del Castillo, the Marchioness of la Quinta Roja, in the 18th century, the garden was originally intended to be an orchard.

However, after the death of her son Diego Ponte del Castillo, the Marqués de la Quinta Roja, the garden was transformed into a beautiful sanctuary in his memory.

Today, visitors can stroll through the garden’s terraced pathways, taking in the intricate fountains, vibrant flowers, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Attractions Tenerife

---

History of the Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja

As I explore the Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja gardens, I am struck by the rich history that surrounds this beautiful green space.

Let me take you on a journey through time, as we explore the origins of this garden and the people who brought it to life.

Diego Ponte del Castillo, Marqués de la Quinta Roja

The Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden owes its name to Diego Ponte del Castillo, Marqués de la Quinta Roja. Born in Tenerife in 1749, the Marqués was a wealthy landowner and a prominent figure in the local community.

He commissioned the construction of the garden in the late 18th century, and it quickly became a symbol of his wealth and status.

The Marqués was a man of many talents. As a skilled musician, a gifted writer, and a passionate botanist, he spent many years travelling the world, collecting rare and fascinating plants for his garden.

He was particularly fond of the French style of gardening, which he had seen during his travels to Lyon. He hired French architect Adolph Coquet to design the garden, and the result was a masterpiece of French-inspired landscaping.

The Garden Takes Shape

The Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden was completed in 1881, and it quickly became one of the most popular attractions in Tenerife.

The garden was laid out in a series of terraces, each one overflowing with colourful flowers, fragrant herbs, and towering trees. The pathways were lined with fountains, statues, and ornamental ponds, creating a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

The centrepiece of the garden is the small marble mausoleum, which was built as a tomb for the Marqués de la Quinta Roja. The mausoleum is a work of art in its own right, with intricate carvings and a beautiful dome.

It is interesting to note that the pathways, fountains, and gardens surrounding it were laid out in a symbolic arrangement linked to Freemasonry.

Today’s Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden

Today, the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden is a beloved landmark in Tenerife. It has been beautifully maintained over the years, and it continues to be a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

It is a testament to the vision and creativity of the Marqués de la Quinta Roja, and a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Tenerife.

---

Architecture of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden

As I walk through the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden, I can’t help but admire the beautiful architecture that surrounds me. The garden is home to several architectural marvels, each with its unique history and significance.

In this section, I will explore the different architectural features of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden.

Mausoleum

The Marble Mausoleum is one of the most prominent structures in the garden. Built-in 1883, it was designed by the French architect Adolph Coquet.

The mausoleum is made entirely of marble and is a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship of the time. The Crypt inside the mausoleum is where the Marquis de la Quinta Roja and his family members are buried.

The mausoleum is a beautiful tribute to the Marquis and his family.

Gardens

The gardens surrounding the Marble Mausoleum are a sight to behold. The pathways, fountains, and gardens are laid out in a symbolic arrangement linked to Freemasonry.

The Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja are composed of seven terraces that are beautifully landscaped and maintained. Each terrace has its unique character and charm.

The gardens are a perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.

Terraces

The seven terraces of the Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja are a unique feature of the garden. The terraces are beautifully landscaped and provide stunning views of the surrounding area.

The top terrace is crowned with a small Masonic Mausoleum. The Masonic Mausoleum is a testament to the Marquis’ membership in the Masonic Order.

The terraces are a perfect place to take a stroll and admire the beauty of the garden.

The Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden is a beautiful testament to the exquisite craftsmanship of the time. The garden is home to several architectural marvels, each with its unique history and significance.

The Marble Mausoleum, Crypt, Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja, and Masonic Mausoleum are all must-see features of the garden.

---

Significance of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden

As I explore the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden, I can’t help but marvel at the history and significance of this beautiful place. The garden has a rich past that is steeped in both tragedy and triumph.

In this section, I will explore the various aspects of the garden’s significance.

Mother

The Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden was commissioned by the Marqués de la Quinta Roja in honour of his mother. It was designed to be a place of beauty and tranquillity where she could relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

The garden was completed in the 18th century and has been a popular attraction ever since.

Religious Intolerance

The garden’s history is also marked by religious intolerance. The original owner of the garden, Adolphe Coquet, was a Frenchman who was forced to flee France due to religious persecution.

He settled in La Orotava and purchased the land that would become the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden.

Coquet was a Protestant, and his presence in a predominantly Catholic area caused tension. He was eventually forced to sell the garden to the Marqués de la Quinta Roja.

Jardín Victoria or Victoria Gardens in La Orotava

The Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden is also known as the Jardín Victoria. This name is derived from the fact that the garden was built to commemorate the victory of the Spanish over the British in the Battle of Santa Cruz in 1797.

The garden was designed in a French style and features terraced gardens, fountains, and a small marble mausoleum.

Cemetery

One of the most interesting features of the garden is the cemetery. The Marqués de la Quinta Roja and his family are buried here in a small mausoleum.

The cemetery is a beautiful and peaceful place, and it is a fitting tribute to the family that commissioned the garden.

Liceo Taoro

Finally, the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden is also significant because of its connection to the Liceo Taoro.

The Liceo Taoro was a cultural and social club that was founded in La Orotava in the late 19th century. The club held many events and activities in the garden, and it was an important part of the local community.

---

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden in La Orotava, Tenerife, is a captivating blend of nature and history. Commissioned by the Marqués de la Quinta Roja in the 18th century, it evolved from a simple orchard into a French-inspired masterpiece.

The garden’s terraced pathways, adorned with vibrant flowers and architectural marvels like the Marble Mausoleum, offer a serene journey through time.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the garden bears witness to significant events — from religious intolerance to commemorating the Spanish victory in the Battle of Santa Cruz. The cemetery, housing the Marqués and his family, adds a poignant touch.

Today, this meticulously maintained oasis stands as a beloved landmark, connecting visitors to the rich cultural heritage of Tenerife. The Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden is not just a picturesque retreat; it’s a living testament to the enduring beauty shaped by nature, history, and human creativity.

---