The history of the Gran Hotel, Arrecife

If you've visited Arrecife, you're sure to have noticed The Gran Hotel with stands out above the skyline of the city. The Gran Hotel in Lanzarote is more than just a luxury hotel; it is an iconic symbol of the island’s development as a tourist destination, reflecting both the island’s growth and the influence of modernist architecture and design.

Located in the capital city of Arrecife, the hotel has played an important role in Lanzarote’s history, offering visitors not just a place to stay, but a connection to the island's evolving cultural and economic landscape. The story of the Gran Hotel intertwines with the history of Lanzarote itself and serves as a microcosm of the island’s transformation over the past few decades.

The Gran Hotel Lanzarote was officially opened in 1971, at a time when Lanzarote was beginning to establish itself as a key player in Spain’s tourism boom. The 1960s and 1970s marked the beginning of mass tourism to the Canary Islands, and Lanzarote, like its neighbouring islands, was eager to accommodate visitors seeking sun, sand, and an escape from the cold European winters.

The hotel was the brainchild of the local architect and businessman, José Rivas Morales, who sought to create a flagship property that would combine comfort, luxury, and modern design in a way that had never been seen before on the island. Rivas, who was deeply committed to the development of Lanzarote’s tourism infrastructure, wanted to create a hotel that would attract discerning travelers while showcasing the island’s potential as a cosmopolitan destination.

The design of the Gran Hotel was influenced by modernist architectural trends, incorporating elements of both Spanish and international styles. The building’s sleek, angular lines, large glass windows, and minimalist approach made it stand out against the backdrop of Lanzarote’s stark volcanic landscape. Its location on the edge of the sea in Arrecife further highlighted the connection between modern architecture and the island’s natural environment.

At the time, the Gran Hotel Lanzarote was one of the tallest buildings on the island, symbolising not only the island’s aspirations in the tourism sector but also a shift toward urbanisation and modernisation. It was a departure from the traditional, low-rise buildings that characterised the island, and as such, became a striking landmark in Arrecife.

The Growth of Tourism in Lanzarote

In the 1970s, Lanzarote was still relatively unknown to international tourists. However, this period marked the beginning of rapid development, particularly in the tourism sector. The Gran Hotel was perfectly positioned to capitalise on the emerging trend of tourism, offering a luxurious place to stay for the increasing number of traveler's who were flocking to the Canary Islands in search of sun and relaxation.

Lanzarote, along with the other Canary Islands, benefited from being part of Spain’s growing tourism industry. The islands were viewed as a desirable destination for Europeans, particularly British and German tourists. The Gran Hotel, with its high-end amenities, modern design, and prime location, quickly became a favoured destination for those seeking both luxury and convenience.

In addition to providing world-class accommodations, the Gran Hotel also began to serve as a venue for cultural and social events. Over the years, it has hosted everything from conferences and corporate meetings to musical performances and exhibitions, making it a center of activity in Arrecife. This role further established the hotel’s reputation as a prominent feature of Lanzarote’s tourism infrastructure.

César Manrique and his objections to the development of The Gran Hotel

César Manrique, the renowned Lanzarote-born artist and architect, objected to the construction of the Gran Hotel in Arrecife. The basis of these objections were rooted in his deep commitment to preserving the island’s unique natural landscape and maintaining a harmonious balance between development and the environment.

César Manrique was a passionate advocate for the idea of sustainable development that respected the island's natural beauty. He had a clear vision for Lanzarote’s future, one in which the island's landscape—shaped by volcanic eruptions and unique geological features—was preserved as a key part of the island's identity. He believed that development should not detract from the island’s beauty, but rather should integrate seamlessly with the environment.

This philosophy informed much of his work, including the César Manrique Foundation, the Jameos del Agua, and the Cueva de los Verdes, where he blended art, architecture, and nature in innovative ways. Manrique’s work on Lanzarote is famous for its use of traditional materials, low-rise structures, and designs that respected the volcanic landscape.

The Gran Hotel Lanzarote, when it was constructed in the late 1960s and early 1970s, represented a very different approach to development compared to Manrique's vision. The hotel was an imposing, modernist skyscraper—at the time, one of the tallest buildings on the island—with a sleek, angular design and large windows. In contrast to the low-rise whitewashed buildings typical of Lanzarote, the hotel’s design stood out as a bold symbol of modernity and commercialism, aligning with the rapid urbanisation and tourism boom of the era.

Manrique's objections to the Gran Hotel were based on the building’s scale and its incongruity with Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape. He was particularly concerned that such a large, modern structure would disrupt the natural harmony of the island, diminishing its character and the beauty of the surrounding environment.

Manriques influence on the island you see today can not be underestimated. There are a number of attractions that were shaped on his vision, all of which are available to visit. You can also get more of an insight into his life's work by visiting the César Manrique Foundation in Tahiche (also known as César Manriques House).

The Gran Hotel, Fire and Tragedy

On September 26, 1989, the Gran Hotel became the site of a tragic event that would forever alter its history and leave a lasting impact on Lanzarote. This was the day of the devastating fire at the Gran Hotel, an incident that would not only cause immense damage to the hotel itself but also shake the local community and affect the perception of the island’s tourism infrastructure for years to come.

The fire at the Gran Hotel broke out late in the evening, around 11:30 PM, in the upper floors of the building. It is believed that the fire started in the hotel’s top floor, which was largely used for hotel services, including storage and machinery. According to reports, the exact cause of the fire was never definitively determined, but it was suspected that the blaze may have been linked to electrical faults or other technical issues within the hotel’s systems.The fire quickly spread to the upper levels, fueled by combustible materials and the building's interior design. The hotel’s lack of sufficient fire-safety measures at the time also contributed to the rapid escalation of the blaze. In the 1980s, fire safety regulations in Spain, including the Canary Islands, were not as stringent as they are today, and many buildings, including the Gran Hotel, were not fully equipped to handle such a large-scale fire.

Sadly, the fire claimed the lives of five people, including hotel staff and guests, who were unable to escape in time. In addition, dozens of others were injured, some seriously, with burns and smoke inhalation being the most common causes of injury. The tragedy shocked not only the residents of Lanzarote but also the broader area of the Canary Islands and mainland Spain, as it was one of the most devastating hotel fires in the region at the time.

The Gran Hotel Today

Today, the Gran Hotel stands tall as a symbol of resilience, not just because of the rebuilding efforts, but because of the lessons learned from historic events. While the memory of the fire remains a somber one, it also serves as a testament to the strength of Lanzarote and its people, who overcame the tragedy and emerged with renewed commitment to safety and progress in the island's tourism industry.

The hotel is thriving and a hub of the city of Arrecife. Guests and visitors often head up to the 17th floor where they can enjoy a meal, or coffee and cake, with spectacular views out over the city, the beach and further beyond towards the Airport and Puerto del Carmen. It's a great spot to take in Lanzarotes breathtaking sunsets.