Tucked away in one of Gran Canaria’s most elegant neighbourhoods, there’s a house that looks as though it’s been plucked straight from a Disney film. With its medieval-style stone tower and fairytale charm, many locals have come to affectionately call it "Rapunzel’s Tower."
Located in the exclusive Ciudad Jardín district, this unique property stands out even among the area’s stately mansions and grand villas. At first glance, its impressive circular tower, with thick stone walls and a turreted crown, evokes images of classic fairytales, princesses trapped in towers, knights on daring quests, and perhaps even a long golden braid dangling from the window. While there are no dragons or enchanted spells here, the atmosphere feels undeniably magical.
A touch of fantasy among tradition
The Canary Islands are known for their rich architectural heritage, from ancient cave dwellings carved into volcanic rock, to traditional one-storey casas terreras with their red-tiled roofs and central patios. Some grander two-storey houses, built by wealthy landowners, can still be found near old town squares and rural estates.
Yet this house in Ciudad Jardín follows none of those traditions. Its medieval-style tower adds a unique touch rarely seen on the islands, catching the eye of anyone passing by and sparking the imagination of both children and adults alike.
From the street, curious onlookers can only admire its exterior, the interior remains a mystery. But its stonework, circular form, and elevated battlements make it easy to picture as the backdrop to a storybook romance or fantasy adventure.
A neighbourhood full of history — and mystery
Ciudad Jardín itself is a neighbourhood steeped in history, known for its early 20th-century mansions and wide tree-lined avenues. Built during a time when Gran Canaria was becoming an increasingly popular destination for European visitors, many of the area’s homes reflect the wealth and tastes of foreign residents who settled here.
But while many of these grand homes share a stately elegance, the "Rapunzel Tower" has captured the imaginations of many for its striking, almost whimsical design. Who lived there? What stories have unfolded behind those thick stone walls? And who might be looking out from its upper windows? These are questions that only add to the building’s fairytale mystique.
For now, the tower remains one of Gran Canaria’s most enchanting architectural curiosities, a small slice of fantasy in the heart of the island.
