Discovering the Monastery of the Cistercian Order in Gran Canaria
In the heart of Gran Canaria, a villa distinguished by its devotion and history stands a remarkable building. At first glance, it appears austere, with simple lines and reclusive walls, yet its interior holds secrets that intertwine art, faith, and tradition. It is a place that astonishes not only for its spiritual value but also for its artisanal pastries.
A space of seclusion, silence, and contemplation, it has become one of the must-visit spots in Teror over the centuries. What began out of necessity now stands as a cultural and gastronomic symbol of the island.
The Cistercian Monastery in Teror
This is the Cistercian Monastery of Teror, whose construction began in 1882 and was completed in 1888 thanks to the efforts of local residents and the support of Bishop Pozuelo. Since then, the Bernardine nuns have found their permanent home here after being expelled from the San Ildefonso convent in Las Palmas and spending a decade in Tenerife.
The building, designed for a life of monastic enclosure, combines sobriety and functionality. It consists of three main sections: the church, the convent, and the guesthouse. Additionally, it includes the Los Castaños estate, acquired in 1917, where crops are grown to support the community’s livelihood.
Historical and Cultural Contributions
At the time of the monastery’s inauguration, twenty religious sisters settled in Teror. By 1930, the community had expanded to nearly fifty nuns from across the Canary Islands and even the mainland. The first abbess was Sister Julia del Corazón de Jesús, who led the convent for three decades.
Since their arrival, the nuns have significantly enriched the heritage of the Basilica of the Pine. Notable is the artistic contribution of Sister Anunciación Cardoso Granados, the creator of several devotional paintings that are now part of Gran Canaria’s Marian iconography. They have also been responsible for the restoration of mantles and embroideries belonging to the Patroness, including the famous sky-blue dress from 1967.
Famous for its Pastries
One of the most popular aspects of the convent is undoubtedly its production of artisanal sweets. Among its specialities are truchas, anise buns, marzipan, and roscos—true delights that are integral to Teror’s confectionery tradition.
These products, crafted with patience and following age-old recipes, have become an essential part of the municipality’s gastronomic heritage.
Little-Known Artistic Heritage
In addition to its baking, the monastery houses a valuable collection of artistic pieces that are not widely known, largely originating from the former 17th-century convent. Among them is an anonymous canvas of the Virgen del Pino adorned with the mantle of ships, dated around 1770.
This hidden treasure, alongside the architectural significance of the convent itself, makes the Cistercian Monastery a cultural and spiritual gem that deserves a visit from everyone who comes to Teror.
