Witnessing the Majesty of Nature and
the Imprint of Time
Los Cuchillos de Vigán, a natural monument in the Canary Islands, stand as witnesses to the magnificence of nature and the imprint of time. These geomorphological formations, baptized as “Los Cuchillos,” owe their name to the sharp ridges that evoke the keenness of knife edges.
Connection with Other Spaces: Exploring the Boundaries
Bordering the Protected Landscape of Malpaís Grande
Situated at the northern and northwest limits, the Cuchillos de Vigán share a boundary with the protected landscape of Malpaís Grande, forming a seamless connection between these two captivating spaces.
Municipalities: Antigua and Tuineje
Encompassing the municipalities of Antigua and Tuineje, the Cuchillos de Vigán serve as a shared natural wonder, drawing attention to the collective beauty of the region.
Surface Area: 6090 Hectares of Natural Splendor
Beyond the Surface – Exploring the Vast Landscape
Spanning across 6090 hectares, this impressive enclave is a canvas of igneous and metamorphic rocks sculpted over the years by erosion and geological phenomena. Valleys, canyons, caves, and cliffs adorn its surface, creating a landscape that captivates with its geological diversity.
Paleontological and Archaeological Treasures
Unveiling the Secrets of the Past
Along the coast of Las Playitas lies a crucial paleontological site, revealing fossils of handian fauna such as the majestic Strombus bubonius shell and the vibrant Thais haemastoma purples. Simultaneously, it serves as an archaeological treasure trove, offering glimpses into ancient cultures through scattered remnants.
The Unique Value of Los Cuchillos de Vigán
Where Recent Lava Flows Meet Intense Erosion
The significance of the Natural Monument of Los Cuchillos de Vigán lies in its unique geomorphological landscape, shaped by recent lava flows and intense erosive wear. The Jacomar Volcano‘s streams have crafted a terrain of “low island,” weaving volcanic flows with a coastal relief characterized by inlets and small jameos. The winding blades that snake towards the sea, rocky islets, and isolated chimneys form a malpaís that dominates a significant portion of this Natural Monument’s coastline.
A Natural Spectacle Unveiled
A Fascinating Spectacle of Nature, History, and Biodiversity
In conclusion, the Cuchillos de Vigán stands as a captivating spectacle of nature, intertwining geological history, biodiversity, and cultural remnants in a unique choreography in the Canary Islands. Explore this extraordinary treasure where the blades of time meet the beauty of the natural world.
