The Pyramids at Guimar
- not as ancient as you might think
The Pyramids at Guimar,
famous in Tenerife, are a popular attraction on the island. Unlike
most of the other pyramids dotted all over the world, however, they
are not particularly ancient. They have been dated to as recent as
the 19th century.
You thought that this
collection of step pyramids was of quite ancient origins, like the
Egyptian pyramids at Giza, several millennia old. There is actually
much controversy surrounding the actual date of the construction of
these artefacts.
Thor Heyerdahl
In 1990, an article appeared
in the Tenerife newspaper, "Diario de Avisos", all about "real
pyramids in the Canaries". It was read by the explorer Thor
Hayerdahl, a man who had much interest in how ancient civilizations
possibly connected with each other. His famous "Kon Tiki"
expedition was launched in pursuit of such things.
As Heyerdahl had long
postulated a link between the Egyptian pyramids and those of the
Maya civilization in Central America, the story on the Pyramids at
Guimar piqued his interest and he relocated to this area in
north-east Tenerife. He established a permanent residence at the
pyramid site in 1994 and remained there until his death in
2002.
Controversy
This is where the
controversy comes in. Heyerdahl maintained that the pyramids were
of ancient origin. Between 1991 and 1998, excavations were made and
analysed. The pyramids were in three distinct layers. The earliest
layer contained shards of pottery that were estimated as being from
the 19th century.
In the site's exhibition, it
is worth noting that no mention is made of the conclusion of the
excavation and the concept of a connection with the Guanches is
suggested.
Apparently, these pyramidal
structures were once liberally dotted around the whole island of
Tenerife, but, over the decades, were systematically dismantled to
use as cheap building materials. The Guimar pyramid site originally
contained nine structures, but now, only six remain.
THE SITE FACILITIES
Casa Chacona
Museum
Housed in a restored,
traditional Canarian building, the museum presents exhibitions of,
amongst other things, step pyramids from around the world and the
method of construction involved in the Guimar ones.
Auditorium
Built partially underground,
this feature shows a fifteen minute film every hour, all about the
pyramid site and featuring information on Thor Heyerdahl and his
many varied expeditions. Commentary available in six
languages.
Leisure Area
Containing a cafe, souvenir
shop and information centre.
Navigation
Centre
An exhibition concerned with
ancient navigation, including a life-sized replica of Thor
Heyerdahl's famous reed boat, Ra II.
Exhibition
Centre
Displaying various cultural
themes.
| Prices |
| Adult |
10.40 euros (resident 7.45 euros) |
| Child aged 9-12 years |
5.20 euros (resident) 4.30 euros |
| Child 8 years or under |
Free |
the pyramids at guimar site
is open all year round
except christmas day and new year's day
9:30am until
6pm
