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You've read the tabloid horror stories and the holiday brochures; you may even have spent every holiday for the past three years lying prone on a beach in Playa las Américas, Los Cristianos or Puerto de la Cruz. But how much do you really know about the history and culture of this holiday destination of your choice or this pariah of world tourism, depending on your view?
Here are some snippets about the history and culture of
Nelson gave his right arm to be on Tenerife. In July 1797, Rear Admiral Horatio Nelson attacked the harbour at Tenerife's capital,
In return, Gűtiérrez sent Nelson a barrel of Malmsey wine, at that time considered to be the finest wine in the world. This imbalance of cultural exchange between the two countries has remained a strong tradition to the present day.
Tenerife has an affinity with Scotland's Patron Saint, San Andrés; better known to the Scots as Saint Andrew. One popular tale tells of his arrival on Tenerife, the timing of which coincided with the readiness of the year’s new wine. Keen to integrate with the locals, Andrés partook liberally of the ‘vino del país’ and eventually fell into a deep sleep, at which point local children tied pots and pans to his robes so that every time he turned over, the clatter woke him.
Now every year on the 29th November, the Eve of his Saint’s day, local children drag metal tails composed of old drinks cans, oil cans and anything else they can get their hands on, around the cobbled streets of the harbour, making an almighty din that would prevent all but the most ardent narcolepsy sufferers from sleeping.
Luckily, the date still coincides with the readiness of the year’s new wine and a few ‘copas’ of the stuff goes some way to numbing the racket.
And the same flag... which is down to San Andrés again. Brother of fisherman and disciple, San Pedro (Saint Peter), San Andrés was crucified on a saltire (x-shaped) cross from which he is said to have preached for two days. Hence the flag of
So if you happen to herald from the land of deep fried Mars Bars and tottie scones, you’ll feel right at home the minute you step off the plane.
The Spanish Civil War originated on Tenerife. In 1936, Francisco Franco was posted, out of harm’s way, to
Tenerife is officially a surreal island. In 1935
Tenerife plays host to




If the only reason you're coming to
However, if when your holiday's over, you want to go home with more than just a tan, then let 'Island Drives' show you the real Tenerife and you'll also take back the sounds, sights, tastes and memories of a truly fascinating island.
For all the latest news, events, photos and loads of interesting snippets about this fascinating island, check out Secret Tenerife's excellent news and features website.

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