Icod de los Vinos is best known for one remarkable tree. However, the town deserves more than a quick photo of the Drago Milenario. Around the tree lies a compact historic centre with squares, churches, traditional houses and reminders of the town’s long connection with wine production.
The famous dragon tree is currently estimated to be around eight hundred years old. It is more than sixteen metres high and has a circumference of approximately twenty metres at its base. The tree belongs to the species Dracaena draco and is regarded as one of the most important natural and cultural symbols of the Canary Islands.
Stories and legends
The name dragon tree refers to its reddish sap. In the past, this sap was used for various purposes, and numerous stories and legends developed around the tree.
The Drago Milenario stands in Parque del Drago, next to the Church of San Marcos. The park also contains younger dragon trees, cardones, tabaibas and other plants that are characteristic of the Canary Islands.
The park has been designed with education in mind. Visitors learn not only about the ancient tree, but also about the development of younger specimens and the traditional uses of plants.
There are also elements that refer to life in Icod in earlier times, including an old wine press. This reflects the town’s long-standing connection with wine production. The addition “de los Vinos” to the municipality’s name is therefore no coincidence.
Protected heritage
A visit to the park takes approximately thirty to ninety minutes, depending on how much time visitors spend reading the information panels and enjoying the different viewpoints. From April to September, the park is open from 9.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m., according to the official tourist information.
After visiting the park, the walk can continue through the historic centre. Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, the Church of San Marcos, Plaza de la Pila and several traditional houses are all within a short distance of one another. The centre of Icod is compact and is officially protected as a site of cultural heritage.
Centuries of history
Some of the streets are sloping and paved with cobblestones, so suitable footwear is recommended. Visitors with reduced mobility may prefer to park close to the centre and explore the town at a relaxed pace.
September is a good month for this excursion. Opening hours are still generous, and in the late afternoon the sunlight falls beautifully on the crown of the dragon tree. Those wishing to avoid the crowds should arrive early in the morning.
A visit to Icod can also be combined with an excursion to Cueva del Viento. However, this tour must be booked in advance and requires a separate time slot.
The Drago Milenario is remarkable because it has witnessed several centuries of history. The tree was already standing here before many of the surrounding buildings were constructed.
Those who also explore the nearby squares and streets will discover that Icod de los Vinos offers much more than one famous tree.
Photo: AI ChatGPT
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