There is a building In the Canary Islands that looks like an optical illusion or something out of a video game, where the road doesn’t follow the expected path. Instead, it runs across the rooftops of buildings, creating one of the most curious urban features in all of Spain.
Located in the scenic town of Tacoronte, in the north of Tenerife, this unique structure has recently gained attention on social media. Built in the 1960s, the building houses 60 apartments, but what truly sets it apart is the road that runs over its rooftop at a height of more than 20 metres.
This road connects the neighbourhood of Mesa del Mar to the coast, and its unusual construction has sparked both admiration and controversy among locals and visitors.
The building was originally designed to meet the growing demand for housing in the area while also supporting the road leading down to the coastline. Residents have pointed out that this mix of infrastructure and housing has been essential for maintaining access to the community without sacrificing residential space.
While the rooftop road might seem fascinating, it hasn’t escaped criticism. In earlier years, cars used to park along the roadside, but the weight became too much for the structure to handle, leading to a ban on parking in the area. Despite the proximity to the road, most residents claim they aren’t disturbed by noise. However, those living on the upper floors, closest to the road, sometimes feel vibrations from big vehicles passing overhead.
Urban planners have voiced concerns over the excessive use of natural space for such constructions. This critique isn’t new for Tacoronte. In 2018, a nearby building called Mar y Sol, which had been converted from a hotel into residences, was damaged during a major storm when towering waves demolished the lower floors. This incident highlighted the risks posed to coastal constructions, adding to the debate over urban development in fragile environments.
While the rooftop road may seem like an extraordinary quirk, it raises important questions about balancing functionality, safety, and the environment in architectural design. For now, it remains a standout feature in the landscape of Tenerife.
