Tenerife’s Iconic Hotel Mencey Celebrates 75th Anniversary

The Hotel Mencey in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is celebrating its 75th anniversary, marking its place as a cornerstone of the capital’s modern history. As the city’s only five-star hotel, the property is officially recognized as an Asset of Cultural Interest. While the Island Council owns the historic building, the Iberostar Group has managed its operations since a major renovation in 2011.

More than just a hotel, the Mencey has long served as a reflection of Tenerife’s international standing. Over the decades, it has hosted a long list of notable guests, including artists like Joan Miró and Camilo José Cela, and film stars such as Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Matt Damon. With its neo-colonial architecture and expansive gardens, the hotel has become a landmark for luxury travel, diplomacy, and the city’s social life.

To mark the milestone, a commemorative program begins on March 19. A highlight of the celebration will be a room decorated in 1950s style, open to guests from March 20 to 29, offering a glimpse into the hospitality of the mid-twentieth century. The hotel is also focusing on its culinary roots, showcasing local ingredients at its ‘Papa Negra’ restaurant and ‘Colmado 1917’ deli.

Lope Afonso, Vice President of the Island Council, praised the hotel for balancing heritage preservation with a modern outlook. Alejandro Santos, regional director for Iberostar, noted that the hotel’s story is deeply woven into the identity of Santa Cruz. With 261 rooms, the Mencey enters this anniversary as a vital asset, continuing to play a key role in Tenerife’s reputation for high-quality tourism.