Risco Caído
A cave sanctuary carved by Indigenous people, where sunlight falls on carvings on the cave wall at certain times of year. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.
Risco Caído is a group of artificial caves carved into a cliff face. One round-domed cave has an opening in its roof, and between the spring and autumn equinoxes, sunlight and moonlight fall on triangular carvings on the cave wall. It is considered a sanctuary where the ancient Canarians tracked the calendar. The site is strictly protected and open only for reserved guided visits. In the town of Artenara there is an interpretation center displaying a model of the caves. Check the official website for visiting arrangements before you go.
Opening hours
Guided tours by reservation only; visitor center approx. 10:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Artenara
- Roque Bentayga
- Tejeda
- Agaete & Puerto de las Nieves
- Roque Nublo
- Cueva Pintada
- Cenobio de Valerón
- Teror & Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine