The well of artisanal excellence

 We are in La Orotava. The population numbers 43,000 people. The increase has been a smooth curve since 1900, when 9200 lived there.  Like similar places it went from a tomato based economy to harvesting tourist euros.  



We can name check two literarily famed Brits.  Christopher Isherwood completed his novel, Mr Norris Changes Trains here.  Radclyffe Hall name checked the place as somewhere Stephen Gordon was keen to go to.  We will have a photo to honour the role of the splendid chaps in green who keep the flower beds blooming and a reflection of the role of the solo bench.




We are off to the Casa de los Balcones - a museum dedicated to the local artisans.  This worthy institution is based in a house built in 1632. It is open from 9 till 7 every day and has a website.  https://casa-balcones.com/  It has some nice pictures of the place. It says it focuses on 16th / 17th century crafts. A gift shop is available.  




Reviews often say much about the reviewer. D Tomeu Siquier RP - eight hours ago - gave three stars and said ‘We only saw it from the outside and it's not that much at all…’    |Yesterday Estefania was more moved.  ‘I loved the house itself very much and it is very well explained, in each part of the house with signs and on top there was also a QR code that sent you to a series of audios and videos where they explained the reason for each corner of the house and the truth is that it is wonderful’




We will push on to, yes, a second museum.  The Museo de Artesanía Iberoamericana de Tenerife opens from 10 till 2 on weekdays only.   https://artenerife.com/  They show the stuff that people make.  Three days ago Idaira was very impressed.  ‘I'm giving it 5 stars because it won't let me give it 10. The person who handles the customer service, Haridian, is a true professional. At one point when I was there, she answered a phone call that was a pleasure to hear, incredibly kind. I love having kind and empathetic people on the other end. Thank you so much!’    Mein Teneriffa sums it all up ‘The Museum of Iberoamerican Art in La Orotava offers an exciting and educational exploration of the journey of traditional craftsmanship to the New World, as well as remarkable pieces from the diverse art world of America. Learn more at MyTenerife - La Orotava - Art Treasures’



Onwards through the lanes and towards the suburban roads.   




Time for lunch.  The Guachinche La Cernidera comes with 4.8 stars  https://guachinchesmodernos.com/   A week ago Carlos was happy.  ‘Super happy with the service, the food, and the tranquility! The service was super friendly and attentive, and the food was unbeatable! The octopus timbale was exquisite! Highly recommended.’



Let us move on.









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