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El Paso
The community of El Paso covers the largest surface area, with over 130 km sq. It stretches over the entire Caldera de Taburiente, from the Roque de los Muchachos to the Las Manchas. The town of 8000 inhabitants is situated at 700 m above sea level.
El Paso, like Los Llanoshas always been a prosperous community. Fruit and almond trees were planted in the middle of the fertile Aridane Valley long before the banana plantations further below brought material wealth. Tobacco from the Caldera is considered high quality and is to this day transformed into cigars (puros) in El Paso, Breña Alta and Santa Cruz.
The breeding of silkworms, silk production and workmanship have also long been a tradition on La Palma, with the centre in El Paso. It was at one time a decisive economic factor, with a total of over 3000 looms on the island in the heyday of the industry, which came to an end when inexpensive Chinese silk conquered the market.
River of sulphur in the Caldera
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Sightseeing:
Iglesia de Bonanza: The small old church from the 17th century is situated at the first intersection, ascending from the Calle Manuel Taño. It has just been restored and shines resplendent in its richly adorned facade.
Museo de Seda: - Calle Manuel Taño, 6, the street next to the “red town hall”.
Las Hilanderas: One can not only view the exhibits in the silk museum, but trace every step of silk production up to the completion of an article. The tradition of silkworm breeding continues today only in El Paso.
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10:00-13:00, Tues+Thurs 17:00-19:00. Tel.: 922485631
Centro de Visitantes: The visitor centre in the Carretera General de Padrón is located at the eastern town exit before the tunnel. One can obtain a wealth of information here on the Caldera de Taburiente with a film presentation in several languages. The model of the island with the most important peaks and volcanoes is also extremely informative.
Opening hours: daily 9:00-14:00/16:00-18.30, Tel. 922 497 277
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La Cumbrecita: A fantastic view of the Caldera can be obtained from both lookout points of Cumbrecita (the lowest point on the Caldera side), located along a loop road. The Cumbrecita can be reached on foot or by car – public buses stop at the visitor centre. Walk or drive from the Centro de Visitantes in the direction of Parque Nacional. The route from there is well-indicated (about 2.5 km along the paved road).
Ermita Virgen: Drive from the visitor centre in the direction of Parque Nacional once again and turn right at the first crossing. A large pine stands in front of the pilgrims’ chapel in which (according to legend) the Virgin Mary once appeared. In the church (which is unfortunately generally closed) stands a statue of the Virgin Mary, which is carried in a parade every three years in August to El Paso – the most important Fiesta in the community of El Paso.
Petroglyphen La Fajana: The petrogyphs near El Paso are to be found about one hour away on foot. Along the old communications road to Los Llanos (turn south at the town hall), posted signs are after a time available to direct you.
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El Paso town hall
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Bird sanctuary: El Paraiso de los Aves. Subtropical garden with tropical house and over 1500 plants. A wonderful sanctuary for birds, some of which are threatened with extinction. Access from the main road between El Paso and Los Llanos. Follow posted directions.
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-17:00, Tel. 922 485 701
Plaza La Glorieta: This wonderfully laid-out square is located in Las Manchas de Abajo, about 15 minutes by car from El Paso. Island artist Luis Morera designed the square, harmoniously adorned with igneous rock, mosaics and many plants.
Access by the main road to Los Llanos, turning left in the direction of Los Canarios/Fuencaliente. The square is indicated by street signs.
Wine museum: In a restored cottage above the Plaza La Glorieta in the El Callejón 88 can be found the wine museum, which presents the history of winegrowing. The products of 15 island vineyards can be sampled and purchased in an exhibition room.
Opening hours: Tues-Fri 9.30-13.30/16:00-18.30, Sat 9.30-14:00.
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