Traffic webcams of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

These webcams show the traffic over Command Marina (1), Left by Ravines (2), Avenue Manuel Hermoso (3) and Left for May 3 (4) from Santa Cruz de Tenerife . Santa Cruz de Tenerife From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search For the province, see Santa Cruz de Tenerife (province). For other places named Santa Cruz, see Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz de Tenerife —  Municipality  — View of Santa Cruz. At the left the city symbol, the Auditorio de Tenerife. Flag Coat of arms     Santa Cruz de TenerifeLocation in the Canary Islands Coordinates: 28°28′N 16°15′W / 28.467°N 16.25°W / 28.467; -16.25Coordinates: 28°28′N 16°15′W / 28.467°N 16.25°W / 28.467; -16.25 Country  Spain Autonomous community  Canary Islands Province Santa Cruz de Tenerife Island Tenerife Founded 3 May 1494, founded as Santa Cruz de Santiago de Tenerife Government  - Alcalde Miguel Zerolo Aguilar (2007) (CC) Area  - Total 150.56 km2 (58.1 sq mi) Elevation 4 m (13 ft) Population (2008)  - Total 221,956  - Density 1,474.2/km2 (3,818.2/sq mi)  - Demonym Santacrucero, ra Chicharrero, ra Time zone WET  - Summer (DST) WEST (UTC) Postal code 38001-38010 Official language(s) Spanish Website Official website Santa Cruz de Tenerife (commonly known as Santa Cruz) is the capital (jointly with Las Palmas), second-most populous city of the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands and the 21st largest city in Spain, with a population of 222.417 in 2009. It is, depending on sources, the 13th, 14th, or 16th-most populous metropolitan area in Spain, with the population 404,913,[1] 481,592[2] or 581,947.[3] Santa Cruz is the second largest city and metropolitan area of the European Union outside Europe. The cities of Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal de La Laguna and urban are physically linked, so that together have a population of over 382,331 inhabitants. Almost half (45.9%) of the inhabitants of the island and about 1/5 (18.35%) of all inhabitants of the Canary Islands living in these two cities. What makes them the largest urban area in the Canary Islands (independent of municipal lines) of the European Union outside Europe.[4][5][6] Santa Cruz de Tenerife is also the capital of the island of Tenerife (most populated of archipelago and Spain)[7][8] and capital of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Located in northeast of the Spanish island of Tenerife, about 210 kilometres (130 mi) off the northwestern coast of the Africa within the Atlantic Ocean. Between the 1833 territorial division of Spain and 1927 Santa Cruz de Tenerife was the sole capital of the Canary Islands, until in 1927 a decree ordered that the capital of the Canary Islands be shared, as it remains as at present.[9][10] Therefore during this time was the cultural, political and economic Canary Islands, these powers now shared with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.[11] Santa Cruz is the busiest port in the Canary Islands and second Spain (after Algeciras), so it is a major Atlantic port cities and has the largest cruise port in Spain and the like.[12] The port is of great importance, is the communications hub between Europe, Africa and Americas, and she and cruise ships arriving from all nationalities. The city is the nerve center on domestic and inter-communications in Canary Islands.[13]   San Juan Baptist Castle (aka "Castillo Negro"). Ruins of the Castle of San Cristóbal, underground of the Plaza de España.The city is home to the Parliament of the Canary Islands, the Canarian Ministry of Presidency (shared in a four-year term with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria), one half of the ministries and boards of the Canarian Government, (the other half being located in Gran Canaria), the Tenerife Provincial Courts and two courts of the Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands. There are several facilities of the La Laguna University in Santa Cruz, including the Fine Arts School and the Naval Sciences Faculty. Its harbour is one of Spain's busiest; it comprises three sectors. It is important for commercial and passenger traffic, as well as for being a major stopover for cruisers en route from Europe to the Caribbean. Actually has the largest port in the Canary Islands and throughout Spain in the second operation.[12][12][14] Also has one of the world's largest carnivals. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife now aspires to become a World Heritage Site, and is the most important of Spain.[15] The main landmarks of the city include the Auditorio de Tenerife (Auditorium of Tenerife), the Santa Cruz Towers (Torres de Santa Cruz) and Church Counterfoil of the Concepcion. Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts the first headquarters of the Center UNESCO in the Canaries. The city is a melting pot of diverse cultures that give it a cosmopolitan character. The largest distinct communities have immigrants from: Peru, Bolivia, Hindu and Arab etc. Santa Cruz de Tenerife From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search For the province, see Santa Cruz de Tenerife (province). For other places named Santa Cruz, see Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz de Tenerife —  Municipality  — View of Santa Cruz. At the left the city symbol, the Auditorio de Tenerife. Flag Coat of arms     Santa Cruz de TenerifeLocation in the Canary Islands Coordinates: 28°28′N 16°15′W / 28.467°N 16.25°W / 28.467; -16.25Coordinates: 28°28′N 16°15′W / 28.467°N 16.25°W / 28.467; -16.25 Country  Spain Autonomous community  Canary Islands Province Santa Cruz de Tenerife Island Tenerife Founded 3 May 1494, founded as Santa Cruz de Santiago de Tenerife Government  - Alcalde Miguel Zerolo Aguilar (2007) (CC) Area  - Total 150.56 km2 (58.1 sq mi) Elevation 4 m (13 ft) Population (2008)  - Total 221,956  - Density 1,474.2/km2 (3,818.2/sq mi)  - Demonym Santacrucero, ra Chicharrero, ra Time zone WET  - Summer (DST) WEST (UTC) Postal code 38001-38010 Official language(s) Spanish Website Official website Santa Cruz de Tenerife (commonly known as Santa Cruz) is the capital (jointly with Las Palmas), second-most populous city of the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands and the 21st largest city in Spain, with a population of 222.417 in 2009. It is, depending on sources, the 13th, 14th, or 16th-most populous metropolitan area in Spain, with the population 404,913,[1] 481,592[2] or 581,947.[3] Santa Cruz is the second largest city and metropolitan area of the European Union outside Europe. The cities of Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal de La Laguna and urban are physically linked, so that together have a population of over 382,331 inhabitants. Almost half (45.9%) of the inhabitants of the island and about 1/5 (18.35%) of all inhabitants of the Canary Islands living in these two cities. What makes them the largest urban area in the Canary Islands (independent of municipal lines) of the European Union outside Europe.[4][5][6] Santa Cruz de Tenerife is also the capital of the island of Tenerife (most populated of archipelago and Spain)[7][8] and capital of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Located in northeast of the Spanish island of Tenerife, about 210 kilometres (130 mi) off the northwestern coast of the Africa within the Atlantic Ocean. Between the 1833 territorial division of Spain and 1927 Santa Cruz de Tenerife was the sole capital of the Canary Islands, until in 1927 a decree ordered that the capital of the Canary Islands be shared, as it remains as at present.[9][10] Therefore during this time was the cultural, political and economic Canary Islands, these powers now shared with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.[11] Santa Cruz is the busiest port in the Canary Islands and second Spain (after Algeciras), so it is a major Atlantic port cities and has the largest cruise port in Spain and the like.[12] The port is of great importance, is the communications hub between Europe, Africa and Americas, and she and cruise ships arriving from all nationalities. The city is the nerve center on domestic and inter-communications in Canary Islands.[13]   San Juan Baptist Castle (aka "Castillo Negro"). Ruins of the Castle of San Cristóbal, underground of the Plaza de España.The city is home to the Parliament of the Canary Islands, the Canarian Ministry of Presidency (shared in a four-year term with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria), one half of the ministries and boards of the Canarian Government, (the other half being located in Gran Canaria), the Tenerife Provincial Courts and two courts of the Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands. There are several facilities of the La Laguna University in Santa Cruz, including the Fine Arts School and the Naval Sciences Faculty. Its harbour is one of Spain's busiest; it comprises three sectors. It is important for commercial and passenger traffic, as well as for being a major stopover for cruisers en route from Europe to the Caribbean. Actually has the largest port in the Canary Islands and throughout Spain in the second operation.[12][12][14] Also has one of the world's largest carnivals. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife now aspires to become a World Heritage Site, and is the most important of Spain.[15] The main landmarks of the city include the Auditorio de Tenerife (Auditorium of Tenerife), the Santa Cruz Towers (Torres de Santa Cruz) and Church Counterfoil of the Concepcion. Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts the first headquarters of the Center UNESCO in the Canaries. The city is a melting pot of diverse cultures that give it a cosmopolitan character. The largest distinct communities have immigrants from: Peru, Bolivia, Hindu and Arab etc. Etymology The area where Santa Cruz currently lies belonged to Menceyato Guanche Anaga, which was the most easterly of the island. The city that is now Santa Cruz had a few names throughout its history: Añazo (name Guanche), Puerto de Santiago Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Santa Cruz de Tenerife (current), which means; "holy cross in the island Tenerife". In memory of when the city was founded stuck a Christian cross in the place is now the center of town. [edit] History The area on which now stands the city and the municipality of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has been the subject of human occupation since time Guanches, approximately 2000 years ago, as attested by the archaeological sites found. The area was known to the Guanches, the first inhabitants of the island, as Añazo. Later, it became one of the most important ports of the Atlantic and the Canary Islands, a status it retains to this day. This former fishermen's village rose to prominence after a Volcano destroyed the port of Garachico in the XVIII century. Santa Cruz became the major port on the Island. It first won its independence from La Laguna and, in the 19th century, was awarded the status of Capital of the Canary Islands province by King Ferdinand VII. Between 1833 and 1927 Santa Cruz de Tenerife was the sole capital of the Canary Islands, until in 1927 a decree ordered that the capital of the Canary Islands is shared whith the Las Palmas, it remains as at present.[16][17] In recent years, it has become clear that there exists a de facto union with neighbouring city San Cristóbal de La Laguna (141,627 inhabitants as in 2005 census) due to the rapid population growth and lack of empty space between both, forming a merged metropolitan union home to 420,198 inhabitants including nearby municipalities Tegueste, Candelaria and El Rosario. Regarding this situation, the mayor of Santa Cruz, Miguel Zerolo Aguilar and his La Laguna counterpart, Ana María Oramas Moro, both belonging to the Canarian Nationalists Party(CC), have stated several times to local media their willingness to proceed to a full political union between their municipalities, even though the decision is due to be postponed to a date after the forthcoming local elections in 2007. Demographics   DemographicsIn 1990, the population peaked above the 200,000 mark; it next hit a record level in the 2003 census. The population has continued to increase, with immigration from Latin America and Africa. Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna are physically and urban together, so that together have a population of over 382,331 inhabitants.[4][5] Ethnically, the population is a mix of Spanish, Portuguese, German, British, and Latin American (especially Cuban and Venezuelan), as well as Northern and Sub-Sahara African. There are also important historical minorities such as Indians (Sindhi), Koreans (see Koreans in Spain#Santa Cruz) and lately Russians[citation needed]. The majority of the population professes the Catholic religion, but there is a large community of Hindus and Muslims. In Santa Cruz de Tenerife crimes decreased by 8.65% and 5.01% a fault. Economy   View of the Industrial ZoneThe economy of Santa Cruz relies mainly on services. Trade, tourism, import-export, the seaport and the presence of the major political and financial institutions, as well as the most important companies, guarantee a strong economic activity and development. The building sector is relevant, while industry, apart from the oil refinery and food processing, is minor. The city of Santa Cruz has refurnished many of its quarters, modernised its infrastructure, built brand new areas, malls, high buildings and some charismatic structures, such as Calatrava´s Auditorio or the Congress Hall, César Manrique´s Marina or the not yet completed Óscar Domínguez Museum of Modern Art and Culture (IODACC) and the new Plaza de España layout, both by Basel-based Pritzker Prize winner studio Herzog & de Meuron. The work to renew the concept under man-made Las Teresitas Beach is under the direction of French architect Dominique Perrault. [edit] Nightlife   Queen Carnival 2006Santa Cruz has not been characterized by an intense night life, in contrast to the nearby university town of La Laguna.[citation needed] Nevertheless, there are several clubs and pubs spread across the city. The best known are in the Parque Marítimo César Manrique, May 3 Avenue and back, and in La Noria street Residencial Anaga. Moreover, in the area of Industrial Mayorazgo, three new clubs have opened. There are also pubs that have survived without belonging to a particular location for leisure, as the platform, near the Bullring, which opened its doors in 1991. It has recently gained importance as a leisure street Antonio Dominguez Alfonso (popularly known as Calle La Noria) and adjacent in the vicinity of the Church of the Conception. After several years of neglect, all the houses in this area has been recovered by the local hotel as tapas, light dinner and drinks. This street also hosts the headquarters of several murgas, music groups linked to Carnival, and independent organ of Events and Recreation. Popularly known as the Avenida de Anaga (as known to all roads adjacent to the port) is in his section of Avenida Francisco la Roche a classic dinner and drinks first. During the 90s was the nerve center of nightlife, the best known local focus of the city. Although many of them closed down because of licenses and noise, attempt to regain its glory today. To that end, the City will undertake various initiatives through 2009. In 2007, as decided by the City Council and managed by the Society for Development, is set in motion an ambitious plan for revitalization of the city under the brand name "Santa Cruz + Viva ', in accordance with Cabildo Insular de Tenerife and Government of the Canary Islands.[21] Media In Santa Cruz de Tenerife have drafted the three provincial newspapers (The Day Diario de Avisos and La Opinión de Tenerife), as well as editors of newspapers regional La Gaceta de Canarias. Also located in the city the headquarters of various TV channels, most of which broadcast on the island: Spanish Television in the Canary Islands, Television Canaria Antena 3 TV Canary Islands, Television Day, Canal 7 Atlantic, Channel 4 Tenerife, Channel 8, etc. Most radio stations are also located in the city. Radio Club Tenerife (Cadena SER), RNE, Teide Radio-Onda Cero, Radio Day, Radio ECCA etc.. In the city is the headquarters of the TV Canaria. Tourist sites (Symbols of the city)   Tenerife Opera House, Canary Islands, Spain Torres de Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz Towers)Auditorio de Tenerife (Auditorium of Tenerife): Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the Auditorium of Tenerife was constructed in 2003. The building has an organic and famous structure in the shape of 'sails' with white blue rollers. The auditorium has a big room for concerts, a room for opera and other smaller rooms. It is an emblem of the city and is one of the more photographed buildings. This building is in the Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife close to the sea. It was inaugurated on September 26, 2003 with the presence of Felipe de Borbón, Prince of Asturias, and was also visited by former U.S. President Bill Clinton. The profile of the famous and majestic auditorium has become a symbol of the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island of Tenerife and the Canary Islands. It is one of the main attractions of Tenerife and the Canaries. Torres de Santa Cruz (Towers of Santa Cruz): Twin towers finished in 2008 are the highest skyscrapers of the city and Canary Islands. In addition they are the highest residential buildings of Spain. Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (Tenerife Space of Arts - TEA): Building designed by the Swiss firm of architects Herzog & de Meuron and directed by the Canary architect Virgilio Gutierrez Herreros. The building houses the contemporary museum Óscar Domínguez Institute, the Alejandro Cioranescu Island Library and the Center for Photography Island of Tenerife. In addition, the property has a hall, a restaurant, a shop, a public plaza, offices. Centro Internacional de Ferias y Congresos de Tenerife (Tenerife International Centre for Trade Fairs and Congresses): The complex was designed by architect and engineer Santiago Calatrava is configured as a multipurpose building that can host major fairs, exhibitions and conferences that take place on the island of Tenerife. The Great Hall, located on the top floor, took a total of 12,000 square meters, making it the largest covered space in the Canary Islands. Naval history   Port of Santa CruzDue to the strategic location of Tenerife on the route between the Mediterranean and the Americas, it was attacked a number of times by the English and the Dutch. In particular, Santa Cruz Bay was the scene of two notable naval engagements involving two of the most famous British admirals. In 1656, Admiral Robert Blake totally destroyed a Spanish silver fleet of 16 ships for the loss of none of his own, despite being under fire from shore batteries and attacking and withdrawing on the tide. 50 years later, the British under John Genings were defeated when they attacked the island on November 6, 1706 during the War of the Spanish Succession. In 1797 Admiral Horatio Nelson met with bloody defeat in an attempt to storm the harbour. It was at this battle that Nelson lost his right arm having been hit before he had stepped off the ship's boat. It was on Santiago's day and that is the reason for having Santiago's sword cutting the lion's head as a symbol of the British defeat. Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife   Panoramic view of the port of Santa Cruz de TenerifeThe Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a fishing port, commercial, passenger and sports from the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, capital of the island, located in the Atlantic Ocean. It is managed by the Port Authority of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It is the first fishing port in the Canary Islands with approximately 7,500 tons of fish caught, according to the Statistical Yearbook of the State Ports 2006 (the latest of which is changing). Following this report is the largest port number of passengers recorded. Similarly, the second port of Spain moving ship and loaded into cars, only surpassed by the Port of Algeciras Bay.[12] [edit] Climate Santa Cruz has a Subtropical climate, with warm dry summers and moderately warm winters. Its average annual temperature is 21 °C (70 °F): 24 °C (75 °F) during the day and 17 °C (63 °F) at night. In the coldest month - January, the typically temperature ranges from 17–21 °C (63–70 °F) during the day, 14–15 °C (57–59 °F) at night, the average sea temperature is 19 °C (66 °F). In the warmest month - August, the typically temperature during the day ranges from 26–30 °C (79–86 °F), above 20 °C (68 °F) at night, the average sea temperature is 23 °C (73 °F). Average number of days per year above 32 °C (90 °F) is 11. Average relative humidity: 61%.[22] Sunshine hours average at 2,868 per year, from 180 in November and January (6 hours of sunshine a day) to 310 in July and August (10 hours of sunshine a day).[23] Precipitation per year is only 23.33 cm (inches: 9.2).[24] Santa Cruz de Tenerife From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search For the province, see Santa Cruz de Tenerife (province). For other places named Santa Cruz, see Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz de Tenerife —  Municipality  — View of Santa Cruz. At the left the city symbol, the Auditorio de Tenerife. Flag Coat of arms     Santa Cruz de TenerifeLocation in the Canary Islands Coordinates: 28°28′N 16°15′W / 28.467°N 16.25°W / 28.467; -16.25Coordinates: 28°28′N 16°15′W / 28.467°N 16.25°W / 28.467; -16.25 Country  Spain Autonomous community  Canary Islands Province Santa Cruz de Tenerife Island Tenerife Founded 3 May 1494, founded as Santa Cruz de Santiago de Tenerife Government  - Alcalde Miguel Zerolo Aguilar (2007) (CC) Area  - Total 150.56 km2 (58.1 sq mi) Elevation 4 m (13 ft) Population (2008)  - Total 221,956  - Density 1,474.2/km2 (3,818.2/sq mi)  - Demonym Santacrucero, ra Chicharrero, ra Time zone WET  - Summer (DST) WEST (UTC) Postal code 38001-38010 Official language(s) Spanish Website Official website Santa Cruz de Tenerife (commonly known as Santa Cruz) is the capital (jointly with Las Palmas), second-most populous city of the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands and the 21st largest city in Spain, with a population of 222.417 in 2009. It is, depending on sources, the 13th, 14th, or 16th-most populous metropolitan area in Spain, with the population 404,913,[1] 481,592[2] or 581,947.[3] Santa Cruz is the second largest city and metropolitan area of the European Union outside Europe. The cities of Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal de La Laguna and urban are physically linked, so that together have a population of over 382,331 inhabitants. Almost half (45.9%) of the inhabitants of the island and about 1/5 (18.35%) of all inhabitants of the Canary Islands living in these two cities. What makes them the largest urban area in the Canary Islands (independent of municipal lines) of the European Union outside Europe.[4][5][6] Santa Cruz de Tenerife is also the capital of the island of Tenerife (most populated of archipelago and Spain)[7][8] and capital of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Located in northeast of the Spanish island of Tenerife, about 210 kilometres (130 mi) off the northwestern coast of the Africa within the Atlantic Ocean. Between the 1833 territorial division of Spain and 1927 Santa Cruz de Tenerife was the sole capital of the Canary Islands, until in 1927 a decree ordered that the capital of the Canary Islands be shared, as it remains as at present.[9][10] Therefore during this time was the cultural, political and economic Canary Islands, these powers now shared with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.[11] Santa Cruz is the busiest port in the Canary Islands and second Spain (after Algeciras), so it is a major Atlantic port cities and has the largest cruise port in Spain and the like.[12] The port is of great importance, is the communications hub between Europe, Africa and Americas, and she and cruise ships arriving from all nationalities. The city is the nerve center on domestic and inter-communications in Canary Islands.[13]   San Juan Baptist Castle (aka "Castillo Negro"). Ruins of the Castle of San Cristóbal, underground of the Plaza de España.The city is home to the Parliament of the Canary Islands, the Canarian Ministry of Presidency (shared in a four-year term with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria), one half of the ministries and boards of the Canarian Government, (the other half being located in Gran Canaria), the Tenerife Provincial Courts and two courts of the Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands. There are several facilities of the La Laguna University in Santa Cruz, including the Fine Arts School and the Naval Sciences Faculty. Its harbour is one of Spain's busiest; it comprises three sectors. It is important for commercial and passenger traffic, as well as for being a major stopover for cruisers en route from Europe to the Caribbean. Actually has the largest port in the Canary Islands and throughout Spain in the second operation.[12][12][14] Also has one of the world's largest carnivals. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife now aspires to become a World Heritage Site, and is the most important of Spain.[15] The main landmarks of the city include the Auditorio de Tenerife (Auditorium of Tenerife), the Santa Cruz Towers (Torres de Santa Cruz) and Church Counterfoil of the Concepcion. Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts the first headquarters of the Center UNESCO in the Canaries. The city is a melting pot of diverse cultures that give it a cosmopolitan character. The largest distinct communities have immigrants from: Peru, Bolivia, Hindu and Arab etc. Santa Cruz de Tenerife From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search For the province, see Santa Cruz de Tenerife (province). For other places named Santa Cruz, see Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz de Tenerife —  Municipality  — View of Santa Cruz. At the left the city symbol, the Auditorio de Tenerife. Flag Coat of arms     Santa Cruz de TenerifeLocation in the Canary Islands Coordinates: 28°28′N 16°15′W / 28.467°N 16.25°W / 28.467; -16.25Coordinates: 28°28′N 16°15′W / 28.467°N 16.25°W / 28.467; -16.25 Country  Spain Autonomous community  Canary Islands Province Santa Cruz de Tenerife Island Tenerife Founded 3 May 1494, founded as Santa Cruz de Santiago de Tenerife Government  - Alcalde Miguel Zerolo Aguilar (2007) (CC) Area  - Total 150.56 km2 (58.1 sq mi) Elevation 4 m (13 ft) Population (2008)  - Total 221,956  - Density 1,474.2/km2 (3,818.2/sq mi)  - Demonym Santacrucero, ra Chicharrero, ra Time zone WET  - Summer (DST) WEST (UTC) Postal code 38001-38010 Official language(s) Spanish Website Official website Santa Cruz de Tenerife (commonly known as Santa Cruz) is the capital (jointly with Las Palmas), second-most populous city of the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands and the 21st largest city in Spain, with a population of 222.417 in 2009. It is, depending on sources, the 13th, 14th, or 16th-most populous metropolitan area in Spain, with the population 404,913,[1] 481,592[2] or 581,947.[3] Santa Cruz is the second largest city and metropolitan area of the European Union outside Europe. The cities of Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal de La Laguna and urban are physically linked, so that together have a population of over 382,331 inhabitants. Almost half (45.9%) of the inhabitants of the island and about 1/5 (18.35%) of all inhabitants of the Canary Islands living in these two cities. What makes them the largest urban area in the Canary Islands (independent of municipal lines) of the European Union outside Europe.[4][5][6] Santa Cruz de Tenerife is also the capital of the island of Tenerife (most populated of archipelago and Spain)[7][8] and capital of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Located in northeast of the Spanish island of Tenerife, about 210 kilometres (130 mi) off the northwestern coast of the Africa within the Atlantic Ocean. Between the 1833 territorial division of Spain and 1927 Santa Cruz de Tenerife was the sole capital of the Canary Islands, until in 1927 a decree ordered that the capital of the Canary Islands be shared, as it remains as at present.[9][10] Therefore during this time was the cultural, political and economic Canary Islands, these powers now shared with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.[11] Santa Cruz is the busiest port in the Canary Islands and second Spain (after Algeciras), so it is a major Atlantic port cities and has the largest cruise port in Spain and the like.[12] The port is of great importance, is the communications hub between Europe, Africa and Americas, and she and cruise ships arriving from all nationalities. The city is the nerve center on domestic and inter-communications in Canary Islands.[13]   San Juan Baptist Castle (aka "Castillo Negro"). Ruins of the Castle of San Cristóbal, underground of the Plaza de España.The city is home to the Parliament of the Canary Islands, the Canarian Ministry of Presidency (shared in a four-year term with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria), one half of the ministries and boards of the Canarian Government, (the other half being located in Gran Canaria), the Tenerife Provincial Courts and two courts of the Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands. There are several facilities of the La Laguna University in Santa Cruz, including the Fine Arts School and the Naval Sciences Faculty. Its harbour is one of Spain's busiest; it comprises three sectors. It is important for commercial and passenger traffic, as well as for being a major stopover for cruisers en route from Europe to the Caribbean. Actually has the largest port in the Canary Islands and throughout Spain in the second operation.[12][12][14] Also has one of the world's largest carnivals. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife now aspires to become a World Heritage Site, and is the most important of Spain.[15] The main landmarks of the city include the Auditorio de Tenerife (Auditorium of Tenerife), the Santa Cruz Towers (Torres de Santa Cruz) and Church Counterfoil of the Concepcion. Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts the first headquarters of the Center UNESCO in the Canaries. The city is a melting pot of diverse cultures that give it a cosmopolitan character. The largest distinct communities have immigrants from: Peru, Bolivia, Hindu and Arab etc. Etymology The area where Santa Cruz currently lies belonged to Menceyato Guanche Anaga, which was the most easterly of the island. The city that is now Santa Cruz had a few names throughout its history: Añazo (name Guanche), Puerto de Santiago Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Santa Cruz de Tenerife (current), which means; "holy cross in the island Tenerife". In memory of when the city was founded stuck a Christian cross in the place is now the center of town. [edit] History The area on which now stands the city and the municipality of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has been the subject of human occupation since time Guanches, approximately 2000 years ago, as attested by the archaeological sites found. The area was known to the Guanches, the first inhabitants of the island, as Añazo. Later, it became one of the most important ports of the Atlantic and the Canary Islands, a status it retains to this day. This former fishermen's village rose to prominence after a Volcano destroyed the port of Garachico in the XVIII century. Santa Cruz became the major port on the Island. It first won its independence from La Laguna and, in the 19th century, was awarded the status of Capital of the Canary Islands province by King Ferdinand VII. Between 1833 and 1927 Santa Cruz de Tenerife was the sole capital of the Canary Islands, until in 1927 a decree ordered that the capital of the Canary Islands is shared whith the Las Palmas, it remains as at present.[16][17] In recent years, it has become clear that there exists a de facto union with neighbouring city San Cristóbal de La Laguna (141,627 inhabitants as in 2005 census) due to the rapid population growth and lack of empty space between both, forming a merged metropolitan union home to 420,198 inhabitants including nearby municipalities Tegueste, Candelaria and El Rosario. Regarding this situation, the mayor of Santa Cruz, Miguel Zerolo Aguilar and his La Laguna counterpart, Ana María Oramas Moro, both belonging to the Canarian Nationalists Party(CC), have stated several times to local media their willingness to proceed to a full political union between their municipalities, even though the decision is due to be postponed to a date after the forthcoming local elections in 2007. Demographics   DemographicsIn 1990, the population peaked above the 200,000 mark; it next hit a record level in the 2003 census. The population has continued to increase, with immigration from Latin America and Africa. Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna are physically and urban together, so that together have a population of over 382,331 inhabitants.[4][5] Ethnically, the population is a mix of Spanish, Portuguese, German, British, and Latin American (especially Cuban and Venezuelan), as well as Northern and Sub-Sahara African. There are also important historical minorities such as Indians (Sindhi), Koreans (see Koreans in Spain#Santa Cruz) and lately Russians[citation needed]. The majority of the population professes the Catholic religion, but there is a large community of Hindus and Muslims. In Santa Cruz de Tenerife crimes decreased by 8.65% and 5.01% a fault. Economy   View of the Industrial ZoneThe economy of Santa Cruz relies mainly on services. Trade, tourism, import-export, the seaport and the presence of the major political and financial institutions, as well as the most important companies, guarantee a strong economic activity and development. The building sector is relevant, while industry, apart from the oil refinery and food processing, is minor. The city of Santa Cruz has refurnished many of its quarters, modernised its infrastructure, built brand new areas, malls, high buildings and some charismatic structures, such as Calatrava´s Auditorio or the Congress Hall, César Manrique´s Marina or the not yet completed Óscar Domínguez Museum of Modern Art and Culture (IODACC) and the new Plaza de España layout, both by Basel-based Pritzker Prize winner studio Herzog & de Meuron. The work to renew the concept under man-made Las Teresitas Beach is under the direction of French architect Dominique Perrault. [edit] Nightlife   Queen Carnival 2006Santa Cruz has not been characterized by an intense night life, in contrast to the nearby university town of La Laguna.[citation needed] Nevertheless, there are several clubs and pubs spread across the city. The best known are in the Parque Marítimo César Manrique, May 3 Avenue and back, and in La Noria street Residencial Anaga. Moreover, in the area of Industrial Mayorazgo, three new clubs have opened. There are also pubs that have survived without belonging to a particular location for leisure, as the platform, near the Bullring, which opened its doors in 1991. It has recently gained importance as a leisure street Antonio Dominguez Alfonso (popularly known as Calle La Noria) and adjacent in the vicinity of the Church of the Conception. After several years of neglect, all the houses in this area has been recovered by the local hotel as tapas, light dinner and drinks. This street also hosts the headquarters of several murgas, music groups linked to Carnival, and independent organ of Events and Recreation. Popularly known as the Avenida de Anaga (as known to all roads adjacent to the port) is in his section of Avenida Francisco la Roche a classic dinner and drinks first. During the 90s was the nerve center of nightlife, the best known local focus of the city. Although many of them closed down because of licenses and noise, attempt to regain its glory today. To that end, the City will undertake various initiatives through 2009. In 2007, as decided by the City Council and managed by the Society for Development, is set in motion an ambitious plan for revitalization of the city under the brand name "Santa Cruz + Viva ', in accordance with Cabildo Insular de Tenerife and Government of the Canary Islands.[21] Media In Santa Cruz de Tenerife have drafted the three provincial newspapers (The Day Diario de Avisos and La Opinión de Tenerife), as well as editors of newspapers regional La Gaceta de Canarias. Also located in the city the headquarters of various TV channels, most of which broadcast on the island: Spanish Television in the Canary Islands, Television Canaria Antena 3 TV Canary Islands, Television Day, Canal 7 Atlantic, Channel 4 Tenerife, Channel 8, etc. Most radio stations are also located in the city. Radio Club Tenerife (Cadena SER), RNE, Teide Radio-Onda Cero, Radio Day, Radio ECCA etc.. In the city is the headquarters of the TV Canaria. Tourist sites (Symbols of the city)   Tenerife Opera House, Canary Islands, Spain Torres de Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz Towers)Auditorio de Tenerife (Auditorium of Tenerife): Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the Auditorium of Tenerife was constructed in 2003. The building has an organic and famous structure in the shape of 'sails' with white blue rollers. The auditorium has a big room for concerts, a room for opera and other smaller rooms. It is an emblem of the city and is one of the more photographed buildings. This building is in the Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife close to the sea. It was inaugurated on September 26, 2003 with the presence of Felipe de Borbón, Prince of Asturias, and was also visited by former U.S. President Bill Clinton. The profile of the famous and majestic auditorium has become a symbol of the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island of Tenerife and the Canary Islands. It is one of the main attractions of Tenerife and the Canaries. Torres de Santa Cruz (Towers of Santa Cruz): Twin towers finished in 2008 are the highest skyscrapers of the city and Canary Islands. In addition they are the highest residential buildings of Spain. Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (Tenerife Space of Arts - TEA): Building designed by the Swiss firm of architects Herzog & de Meuron and directed by the Canary architect Virgilio Gutierrez Herreros. The building houses the contemporary museum Óscar Domínguez Institute, the Alejandro Cioranescu Island Library and the Center for Photography Island of Tenerife. In addition, the property has a hall, a restaurant, a shop, a public plaza, offices. Centro Internacional de Ferias y Congresos de Tenerife (Tenerife International Centre for Trade Fairs and Congresses): The complex was designed by architect and engineer Santiago Calatrava is configured as a multipurpose building that can host major fairs, exhibitions and conferences that take place on the island of Tenerife. The Great Hall, located on the top floor, took a total of 12,000 square meters, making it the largest covered space in the Canary Islands. Naval history   Port of Santa CruzDue to the strategic location of Tenerife on the route between the Mediterranean and the Americas, it was attacked a number of times by the English and the Dutch. In particular, Santa Cruz Bay was the scene of two notable naval engagements involving two of the most famous British admirals. In 1656, Admiral Robert Blake totally destroyed a Spanish silver fleet of 16 ships for the loss of none of his own, despite being under fire from shore batteries and attacking and withdrawing on the tide. 50 years later, the British under John Genings were defeated when they attacked the island on November 6, 1706 during the War of the Spanish Succession. In 1797 Admiral Horatio Nelson met with bloody defeat in an attempt to storm the harbour. It was at this battle that Nelson lost his right arm having been hit before he had stepped off the ship's boat. It was on Santiago's day and that is the reason for having Santiago's sword cutting the lion's head as a symbol of the British defeat. Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife   Panoramic view of the port of Santa Cruz de TenerifeThe Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a fishing port, commercial, passenger and sports from the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, capital of the island, located in the Atlantic Ocean. It is managed by the Port Authority of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It is the first fishing port in the Canary Islands with approximately 7,500 tons of fish caught, according to the Statistical Yearbook of the State Ports 2006 (the latest of which is changing). Following this report is the largest port number of passengers recorded. Similarly, the second port of Spain moving ship and loaded into cars, only surpassed by the Port of Algeciras Bay.[12] [edit] Climate Santa Cruz has a Subtropical climate, with warm dry summers and moderately warm winters. Its average annual temperature is 21 °C (70 °F): 24 °C (75 °F) during the day and 17 °C (63 °F) at night. In the coldest month - January, the typically temperature ranges from 17–21 °C (63–70 °F) during the day, 14–15 °C (57–59 °F) at night, the average sea temperature is 19 °C (66 °F). In the warmest month - August, the typically temperature during the day ranges from 26–30 °C (79–86 °F), above 20 °C (68 °F) at night, the average sea temperature is 23 °C (73 °F). Average number of days per year above 32 °C (90 °F) is 11. Average relative humidity: 61%.[22] Sunshine hours average at 2,868 per year, from 180 in November and January (6 hours of sunshine a day) to 310 in July and August (10 hours of sunshine a day).[23] Precipitation per year is only 23.33 cm (inches: 9.2).[24] Tenerife Tourism Guide - Santa Cruz de Tenerife Santa Cruz de Tenerife looks like a capital - great hulking local government buildings, a busy working port, and work-a-day vibe - there's even temping agencies here - gulp! At the time of writing (2006) much work is afoot in the city to build a comprehensive tram system, which should ease it's huge traffic problem. Santa Cruz and Tenerife residents like their cars, and the number of cars here has increased massively in recent years. When the tramline is finished it will connect Adeje in the south to Santa Cruz, making it even easier to visit this historic Canary Islands city from Tenerife's southern resorts. If you're planning to focus you holiday on exploring the cultural and rural sights of North Tenerife then Santa Cruz makes an ideal base. Some of the best shopping and museums in the Canary Islands are here in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Tourists mix with sombre looking, mostly business men and local shoppers. It's up there with Las Palmas on Gran Canaria as a city with immense history, a local Canarian vibe and plenty going on including it's spectacular nearby beach - Playa de las Teresitas and pleasant stopover San Andres with it's many bars - then off you go over the stunning Anaga mountains towards Taganana and La Laguna - magic!