Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden, also called Jardín Victoria, is a small public garden in La Orotava, Tenerife, arranged across seven terraces. Flower beds, fountains and seating lead up to a white-marble mausoleum designed by French architect Adolph Coquet. From the upper levels, you can look across the town toward Puerto de la Cruz and Mount Teide. The garden’s history is tied to Diego Ponte del Castillo, whose Freemasonry associations prevented his burial in the family pantheon. Entry is free, and the garden makes a quiet pause while exploring the town.
Seven terraces above La Orotava
The garden, also known as Jardín Victoria, was created on the order of Doña Sebastiana del Castillo, the Marquesa de la Quinta Roja. Its seven stepped levels descend from the mausoleum, with flower beds, fountains and places to sit. The formal terraces give the garden its shape, while paths connect the different levels.
The grounds once formed part of the mansion of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja. That mansion later became the Hotel Victoria. Today the garden is open to the public and sits close to the Liceo de Taoro and Plaza de la Constitución.
The mausoleum and its history
The garden’s history centers on Diego Ponte del Castillo, the marquesa’s son. Because of his Freemasonry associations, he could not be buried in the family pantheon. His mother commissioned an alternative burial site at the top of the garden, and French architect Adolph Coquet designed the mausoleum.
The white-marble structure stands on eight Corinthian columns. Omega letters appear on its doors, and Freemasonry symbols can be found around the garden. The mausoleum was never used for its intended purpose. The story behind it gives the terraces a significance beyond their role as a place to stroll.
Views from the upper levels
The higher terraces look over La Orotava and toward the coast, with Puerto de la Cruz and Mount Teide visible from the garden. On a clear, sunny day, the distant views are easier to make out. The open layout leaves some areas without much shade, so sunscreen is useful when the sun is strong.
The garden is compact enough for a short break during a walk around La Orotava. Strollers can enter from the west side. A coffee is available at the entrance, where you can sit and look out over the town.
FAQ
Is entry to Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Garden free?
Yes. The garden is free to enter.
How long should I spend at Jardín Victoria?
Allow about 30 to 60 minutes to walk through the terraces, see the mausoleum and enjoy the views.
What can you see from the garden?
The garden looks over La Orotava toward Puerto de la Cruz and Mount Teide.
Is the garden accessible with a stroller?
Stroller access is available from the west side.
