Castillo de San José
Castillo de San José
San José Castle is located in Puerto Nao, a strategic enclave in the bay of Arrecife. Known as the “Fortress of Hunger”, it was built under the reign of Charles III for defensive purposes on the island of Lanzarote.
Two centuries later, César Manrique directed its refurbishment to house the International Museum of Contemporary Art, MIAC, establishing it as the first contemporary art museum in the Canary Islands.
In December 1976, the International Museum of Contemporary Art MIAC was inaugurated, and since then it has offered visitors an outstanding collection of international, national and Canarian artists, a program of temporary exhibitions and cultural activities. The museum is complemented by a spectacular restaurant with stunning views of the bay offered by the semi-circular glass construction of the building.
The Restaurant
San José Castle presents one of the best restaurants in Arrecife to eat, have a drink or enjoy a coffee in a unique atmosphere.
Designed by César Manrique and impregnated by the essence of the Lanzarote artist in each of its corners, its gastronomic proposal puts in value the work of the men and women of the primary sector of the island.
From Coastal cherne (fish) ceviche with passion fruit and “el Pescado de Manrique”, to the “revuelto conejero”, or the Canarian tomato salad, papaya and tapenade: in its kitchens the recipes that have been part of the history of the island are transformed, reconverting them into honest and creative dishes that highlight the local product and incorporate avant-garde techniques, while preserving intact the aromas and flavors that distinguish the Canarian gastronomy, and in particular, that of Lanzarote.
The desserts transport the sweet tooth to the flavors that sweetened the childhood of every local, while surprising with unique and surprising nuances, highlighting, for example, the pastry cream millefeuille or yogurt lingot with cherry jam and sugar crystal.
In addition to its menu, which is frequently updated according to the availability of local produce and seasonal changes, the restaurant has a tasting menu, vegetarian menu and children’s menu.
The wine menu offers only the best Denomination of Origin wines of Lanzarote: a range of white, red, sweet and sparkling wines that are perfect both for pairing a meal -which the service will be happy to suggest- and for having a drink and sharing a snack at sunset.
Restaurant Opening Hours
Wednesday to Saturday: 12:30 to 23:00. Uninterrupted service.
Sunday to Tuesday: from 11:00 to 18:00
Bar-Cafeteria Opening Hours
Sunday to Tuesday: from 11:00 to 18:00
Wednesday to Saturday: from 11:00 to 23:30
* For groups and special events write by email to our department commercial department comercial@centrosturisticos.com
The Museum
International Museum of Contemporary Art, MIAC
San José Castle, recognized as an Asset of Cultural Interest and Historical Heritage of Spain, houses the headquarters of the MIAC, International Museum of Contemporary Art on the island of Lanzarote.
The upper hall of the Castle permanently houses the MIAC Collection, which consists of important pieces by international painters and sculptors such as Tápies, Guerrero, Torner, Zóbel, Sempere, Gordillo, Rivera and Le Parc. This is followed by the Canary Island Artists Room, made up of Óscar Dominguez, César Manrique, José Dámaso, Cristino de Vera, María Belén Morales and Manuel Millares. Finally, the Pancho Lasso Room, a space in honor of the local sculptor that gathers some of the most emblematic works of his artistic career, which began in the 1930s.
The MIAC’s mission is to promote knowledge and public access to contemporary art in its various manifestations. For this reason, in addition to the permanent collection, the lower hall hosts an ongoing program of temporary exhibitions and public activities that offer the public a reflection on comteporaneity.
Visit Duration
Approximately 60 minutes
Relax with our service
External food and drinks are not allowed. You can fully enjoy our cafeteria and restaurant services.
Families
Free access for children under 7 years old.
Comfortable high chairs are available in the restaurant. Baby changing facilities are provided in the restrooms.
Photography
We recommend photographing the building’s facade (18th-century fortress), the outdoor gardens, the upper terrace, and the sea views from the Castillo de San José Restaurant.
Pets
Pets are not allowed, except for assistance dogs as specified by Law 3/2017, of April 26, regarding assistance dogs for people with disabilities in the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands.
Accessibility
Only the entrance floor is accessible.
info@centrosturisticos.com
901 200 300
