The Pyramids of Güímar are one of the greatest archaeological enigmas of the Canary Islands. Located in the municipality of Güímar, on the island of Tenerife, these stepped structures have sparked intense debate among historians, archaeologists, and curious tourists. Are they mere accumulations of agricultural stones or remnants of an ancient civilization? In this article, we will explore their history, the role of the explorer Thor Heyerdahl, the controversies surrounding their origin, and what you can expect if you decide to visit them.
History and Discovery: Who Built the Pyramids?
The origin of the Pyramids of Güímar remains a mystery. There are several theories about their construction:
🔹 Agricultural Hypothesis: Some historians suggest that they were built by local farmers in the 19th century to clear agricultural fields. This theory holds that the stones were stacked in a stepped manner without ceremonial intent.
🔹 Pre-Hispanic Theory: Other researchers believe they may be related to the Guanches, the aboriginal people of Tenerife, who might have constructed these pyramids for ritual or astronomical purposes.
🔹 Connection with Other Civilizations: Thor Heyerdahl, the famous Norwegian explorer, advocated the idea that these pyramids could be related to pre-Columbian cultures such as the Maya or the Egyptians, suggesting ancient links between continents.
Thor Heyerdahl and His Theory on the Origin of the Pyramids
The renowned explorer Thor Heyerdahl dedicated years to studying the Pyramids of Güímar. For him, these structures were not merely stone accumulations but evidence of a possible connection between ancient civilizations of Africa, America, and the Canary Islands.
Heyerdahl argued that:
✅ The arrangement of the pyramids was aligned with astronomical phenomena, such as the solstices.
✅ They resembled pyramids found in Mexico, Peru, and Egypt.
✅ The Canary Islands could have been an intermediate point in pre-Hispanic navigation routes.
His theory was heavily criticized by the scientific community but generated great tourist interest in the area. Today, the Ethnographic Park Pyramids of Güímar maintains his legacy and showcases his research.
Exploring the Ethnographic Park: What to See and Do
The Pyramids of Güímar are not only a set of ancient structures but also an ethnographic park that offers a complete experience to visitors.
🔸 The Pyramids: You can observe the six stepped structures that make up the site.
🔸 The Thor Heyerdahl Museum: A space where his theories and discoveries are explained.
🔸 Sustainable Garden: An area with endemic flora and a focus on conservation.
🔸 Explorers’ Route: An interactive tour about ancient navigation and transoceanic voyages.
🔸 Poisonous Garden: A collection of over 70 species of toxic plants.
📌 Visitor Tip: Many people highlight how well-organized the park is and the amount of interesting information it offers about the pyramids.
Controversies and Scientific Debate About Their Origin
Despite its popularity, the Pyramids of Güímar remain a topic of debate.
🔹 Critics: Many archaeologists claim they are simply modern formations without true prehistoric value.
🔹 Supporters: Others believe their orientation and similarity to ancient structures deserve a deeper analysis.
This contrast makes the visit even more interesting, as each person can form their own opinion.
How to Get There and Practical Information for the Visit
📍 Location: Güímar, Tenerife, Spain.
🕒 Hours: Generally open every day from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
💰 Price: General admission from €12.
🚗 How to Get There: Accessible by car from Santa Cruz de Tenerife in about 30 minutes or by bus from various points on the island.
Visitor Opinions: The Best of the Place
Based on comments from platforms like TripAdvisor and Google Reviews, here are some impressions from those who have visited the site:
✅ The best:
✔️ Interesting place with a lot of historical information.
✔️ Well-organized with interactive routes.
✔️ Ideal for archaeology and history enthusiasts.
Is It Worth Visiting the Pyramids of Güímar?
If you are passionate about archaeological mysteries and history, yes, it is worth visiting the Pyramids of Güímar. Not only will you see these enigmatic structures, but you will also learn about a fascinating part of Tenerife’s history.
💡 Final Recommendation: If you decide to visit, take the opportunity to explore other nearby attractions, such as the Teide National Park or the southern beaches of Tenerife.
