Castle of Paso Alto

Santa Cruz de Tenerife · Category: Architecture · Subcategory: Military architecture · Year: 1670 · Authors: Lope de Mendoza

In 1588, the military engineer Leonardo Torriani recommended the construction of a defence on the left flank of Santa Cruz bay, opposite the usual anchorage protected by the mountainous massif of Anaga, at the foot of the mountain known as Paso Alto. Following this recommendation, a mobile field artillery platform was placed there, which later became a small fort.

The aim of making Paso Alto a bastion of greater importance was realised in 1670, when the general commander Laso de la Vega, Count of Puertollano, commissioned the military engineer Lope de Mendoza to design a fort. A building with an irregular plan was then constructed, accessed by a ramp leading to a parade ground free of buildings. It consisted of two floors: the lower with a chapel, troop accommodation, dungeons, powder magazine, and stables; the upper with officers' quarters, kitchen, and some storerooms. The building's façade was made of ashlar at the base and rubble masonry above. It was crowned by a wide stone parapet with some battlements.

The installation of this fort was a great success within the defensive system of Santa Cruz, as evidenced by its effectiveness against the various attacks the town received throughout its history. 

Paso Alto served as a fort, military prison, and during the 19th century, as a place of custody for political enemies. This place was also for a long time the destination of a pilgrimage (now timidly revived) in honour of the image of Christ venerated in its chapel. The festival became one of the most popular and well-attended in the city during much of the 18th century.

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