Nestled in the heart of Lanzarote, near the village of Nazaret, lies Lagomar—a unique residential and cultural space that embodies the integrative vision of nature and art by the renowned Lanzarote artist César Manrique. We delve into this unique enclave on our blog at First Minute Excursions and Last Minute Transfer.

Discovering Lagomar in Lanzarote

Far from being a mere housing development, Lagomar is a work of art in itself—a testament to Manrique’s ability to transform volcanic geography into a habitable and aesthetically astonishing environment.

The history of Lagomar dates back to the 1970s when British real estate developer Sam Benady acquired an old quarry of volcanic ash (rofe). Fascinated by the uniqueness and potential of the terrain, Benady enlisted César Manrique to develop a project that would respect and enhance the natural beauty of the site.

Manrique, true to his philosophy of minimal and harmonious intervention with the environment, conceived Lagomar as a complex of homes and communal spaces carved directly into the volcanic rock, utilizing natural cavities and the rough texture of the material.

Organic architecture and integrated landscaping

The result is an architectural complex of organic style, where the dwellings adapt to the terrain’s topography, blending seamlessly with the pre-existing rock formations.

The volcanic stone walls intertwine with native vegetation, creating a fascinating visual dialogue between human intervention and the force of nature. Palm trees, cacti, bougainvillea, and other species resilient to Lanzarote’s climate are integrated into the design, adding color and life to the landscape.

Omar Sharif’s house: a cinematic legacy

One of Lagomar’s most iconic residences is known as “Omar Sharif’s House.” Legend has it that the famous Egyptian actor fell in love with the place during a film shoot in Lanzarote and purchased it. However, after losing a game of bridge to the developer, Sharif had to part with the property. This anecdote, whether true or not, has contributed to the aura of mystery and fascination surrounding Lagomar.

What to see at Lagomar

Today, Lagomar remains an inhabited place and a point of tourist interest for those visiting Lanzarote.

While some areas are private, the restaurant, bar, and art gallery are open to the public, allowing visitors to experience the magic of this unique enclave.

Strolling through its pathways, admiring the ingenious stone constructions, and enjoying the panoramic views is an experience that connects visitors with César Manrique’s artistic vision and Lanzarote’s telluric force.

Currently, it functions as a museum and cultural center, hosting traveling exhibitions and supporting local and international artists. Located in Nazaret, just minutes from Teguise, it is easily accessible by car.

The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with an approximate entrance fee of €8. It offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in its architecture and fascinating history.