Church of San Marcos Evangelista

Descripción

One of the most important artistic and spiritual treasures of Icod de los Vinos.

The Parish Church of San Marcos Evangelista is one of the oldest and most emblematic temples in northern Tenerife. Its history dates back to the mid-16th century, though its origins are linked to the mysterious discovery of a Gothic image of Saint Mark, which, according to local tradition, was found by the Guanches before the Spanish conquest of the island. Since then, the temple has been expanded, transformed, and embellished over the centuries, becoming a true jewel of Canarian religious architecture. In 2006, it was declared a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC) under the category of Monument.

An interior filled with art and history

Inside, the church impresses visitors with its elegance and artistic richness. It features three naves, covered by Mudejar-style coffered ceilings, an impressive Baroque main altarpiece, and several side chapels housing sculptures and artworks of great historical and devotional value—many originating from Andalusian workshops and the former Franciscan convent of the town.

The main altarpiece, crafted in the 18th century by the local artist Bartolomé de Acosta, enshrines the Gothic image of Saint Mark the Evangelist.

Other remarkable pieces include the Christ of the Expiration, the Mexican sculpture of the Dead Christ, crafted using indigenous Tarascan techniques, and the Monumental Painting of the Souls (Cuadro de las Ánimas)—considered the largest artwork of its kind in the Canary Islands.

The Filigree Cross: a unique masterpiece in the world

Among all the treasures housed in the church, the most extraordinary is undoubtedly the Silver Filigree Cross, regarded as the largest and best-preserved filigree artwork in the world. This magnificent piece, standing 2.4 meters tall and weighing 47 kilograms, was crafted in Havana in 1665 by the Aragonese silversmith Jerónimo de Espellosa, who resided in Cuba. It was commissioned by Nicolás Estévez Borges, Dean of the Cathedral of Santiago de Cuba and a native of Icod.

Originally destined for the Chapel of Mary Magdalene in the Franciscan convent of Icod, the cross was later transferred to the Church of San Marcos after the Ecclesiastical Confiscation. Entirely covered in silver filigree, its octagonal base is the most ornate section, displaying an exceptionally delicate and intricate goldsmith’s craft unmatched anywhere in the world.

Its artistic and symbolic value has earned it international recognition, including an exhibition at the 1992 Universal Exposition in Seville, where it was displayed in the Vatican Pavilion as a symbol of Canarian spiritual and artisanal excellence.

The Church of San Marcos is not only a place of worship but also a gateway to the history, art, and cultural identity of Tenerife. To admire its architecture, walk through its chapels, and stand before the majestic Filigree Cross is to experience the living heritage that defines the soul of Icod de los Vinos.

Plaza Andrés de Cáceres, 1A, 38430 Icod de los Vinos, Santa Cruz de Tenerife