Exploring the Enigmatic Quinta de los Ruiz: A Forgotten Gem in Tenerife
Nestled on the picturesque Canary Islands off the coast of Africa, the abandoned mansion known as Quinta de los Ruiz stands as a hauntingly beautiful relic of the past. Once a place of grandeur, this enigmatic estate now draws urban explorers and history enthusiasts eager to uncover its secrets. Its crumbling walls, overgrown gardens, and echoes of a bygone era create an atmosphere both mysterious and captivating, inviting you to imagine the lives once lived within its now-silent halls.
With the expertise of master photographer Javi Baranano and the cutting-edge technology of an iPhone 12 Pro, you can now experience the magic of Quinta de los Ruiz like never before. This stunning virtual tour offers a full 360-degree view of the mansion, allowing you to explore its eerie charm from the comfort of your own home. Every intricate detail has been captured, immersing you in the mansion’s decayed beauty and ensuring that no corner of this historic treasure goes unnoticed.
Click here to view it in fullscreen.
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Tenerife lies Quinta de los Ruiz, an abandoned estate that has piqued the curiosity of urban explorers and history enthusiasts alike. This once-grand mansion, now a canvas for nature and time, offers a glimpse into the island’s storied past.
Historical Background
Quinta de los Ruiz, located in Buenavista del Norte, traces its origins to the 16th and 17th centuries, a period when Tenerife’s northern region flourished with viticultural estates. These estates played a pivotal role in the island’s economy, with Tenerife becoming Europe’s largest wine exporter between the 16th and 18th centuries, exporting up to 20 million liters annually.
The estate was associated with the Benítez de Lugo family, a prominent lineage in Tenerife’s history. Luis Francisco Benítez de Lugo, the VIII Marquis of Florida and X Lord of Algarrobo and Bormujos, was a notable figure linked to this estate. Born into nobility, he pursued studies in law and letters at the University of Madrid and became deeply involved in republican politics during the 1860s. A fervent orator and radical deputy in the Cortes, his political career was interrupted by the restoration of the monarchy in 1874, prompting his return to Tenerife. It was during this period that he occupied the family estate, Quinta de los Ruiz.
Architectural Significance
The architecture of Quinta de los Ruiz reflects the traditional Canarian style, characterized by wooden balconies, central courtyards, and stone masonry. Such estates were not only residential spaces but also centers of agricultural production, particularly wine, which was a significant export product for Tenerife during that era.
Decline and Abandonment
The estate remained under the ownership of the de Lugo family for over three centuries. In the 20th century, it was acquired by the government of Tenerife. Despite its historical significance, the mansion fell into disrepair, becoming a target for vandalism and neglect. Today, the once-pristine estate is adorned with graffiti, and its walls bear the marks of time and human interference.
Current Status and Urban Exploration
In recent years, Quinta de los Ruiz has become a popular site for urban explorers seeking to capture its haunting beauty and historical essence. Photographers and adventure seekers are drawn to its decaying yet picturesque structure, offering a tangible connection to Tenerife’s past. The government has expressed interest in restoring the estate to some degree, aiming to preserve this piece of national history and potentially boost tourism in the area.
Conclusion
Quinta de los Ruiz stands as a testament to Tenerife’s rich history, from its days as a thriving viticultural estate to its current status as an abandoned relic. For urban explorers and history enthusiasts, it offers a unique journey into the past, echoing stories of nobility, politics, and the island’s economic heritage. As efforts toward its preservation continue, one can hope that this enigmatic estate will regain some of its former glory, allowing future generations to appreciate its historical and cultural significance.
6K 360VR video of the abandoned mansion.

360-degree panoramic image captured inside the Quinta De Los Ruiz in Tenerife, Spain.
You might also find this abandoned power station in Western Australia or the abandoned Jungleland Zoo.
Images captured by Javi Baranano of VR3d360.org with his iPhone rig.
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Do you have 360-degree panoramic images captured in an abandoned location? Send your images to Abandonedin360@gmail.com. If you choose to go out and do some urban exploring in your town, here are some safety tips before you head out on your Urbex adventure. If you want to start shooting 360-degree panoramic images, you might want to look onto one-click 360-degree action cameras.
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