“CASTLE OF SAN JOSE“
The Castillo de San José is located in Puerto Nao, a strategic place in the bay of Arrecife. It is also known as the “Fortress of Hunger” and it was built under the reign of Carlos III for defensive purposes.
Two centuries later, César Manrique directed its refurbishment to house the International Museum of Contemporary Art, “MIAC”, turning it in 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 works 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.
Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo, MIAC
El Castillo de San José, reconocido como Bien de interés Cultural y Patrimonio Histórico de España, acoge la sede del MIAC, Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo en la isla de Lanzarote.
En la sala alta del Castillo se ubica la Colección MIAC, que consta de importantes piezas de pintores y escultores internacionales como Tápies, Guerrero, Torner, Zóbel, Sempere, Gordillo, Rivera o Le Parc. A continuación se encuentra la sala de Artistas Canarios, conformada por Óscar Dominguez, César Manrique, José Dámaso, Cristino de Vera, María Belén Morales y Manuel Millares. Por último, la sala Pancho Lasso, un espacio en honor al escultor conejero que reúne algunas de las obras más emblemáticas de su trayectoria artística, iniciada en la década de los años 30.
San José Castle houses one of the best restaurants in Arrecife to eat, have a drink or enjoy a coffee in a unique atmosphere.
It was designed by César Manrique and impregnated by the essence of the Lanzarote artist in each of its corners, its gastronomic proposals enhance the work of the men and women of the primary sector of the island.
From the Canarian tuna ceviche and “el Pescado de Manrique”, to the “revuelto conejero”, or the Canarian tomato salad, papaya and tapenade: in its kitchen the recipes that have been part of the history of the island are transformed turning them into honest and creative dishes that highlight the local products and incorporate avant-garde techniques, while preserving intact the aromas and flavours that distinguish the Canarian gastronomy, and in particular, that of Lanzarote.
The desserts take the sweet tooth to the flavours that sweetened the childhood of every local, while surprising us with unique and surprising nuances, highlighting, for example, the pastry cream millefeuille, the handmade olivine ice cream from Montaña Rajada or the goat’s milk and cherry yogurt.
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, a vegetarian menu and a children’s menu.
The wine menu offers only the very 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.
* For groups and special events, send an e.mail: comercial@centrosturisticos.com
Opening times
–Museum *
11:00 h a 18:00 h
–Restaurant, Castillo de San José *
With free access and exterior entrance.
Wed to Sat, 12:30 to 23:30
Sun to Tue, from 11:00 to 18:00
Bar – Cafeteria
Sun to Tue, 11:00 to 18:00
Wed to Sat, from 11:00 to 23:30
Photography
We recommend taking pictures of the facade of the building (an 18th Century fortress), the external gardens, the upper terrace and the view to the sea from Restaurant Castillo de San José. The use of a flash is not allowed when taking photographs inside the museum in order to avoid damaging the works of art.
Mobility
The Art, Culture and Tourism Centres are in the process of removing architectural barriers and adapting places for people with reduced mobility. Part of the centre can be accessed.
Families
Free access for children under 7 years old.
It has comfortable highchairs for children in the restaurant. Baby changing tables are available in toilets.
Pets
Unfortunately, due to health regulations, we are unable to allow pets in our establishment except for guide dogs for visually impaired persons.
We appreciate your understanding and apologize for any inconvenience.