Information
Sanatorio de Abona is an abandoned leper colony located on the south coast of Tenerife, just above the town of Abades. Built in 1943, the site consists of around 40 buildings, including a hospital, school, crematorium, dormitories, and a church with a striking tower.
The area is completely abandoned, with buildings left in various states of completion. It’s a fascinating and eerie place, often visited for photography, urban exploration, and sunrise views. A beach is nearby, making it a unique combination of haunting history and natural beauty.
PLEASE NOTE: Visiting the site is at your own risk. There are no safety measures or supervision.
Extra Tip
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This place is especially beautiful during sunrise, when the sun hits the abandoned buildings and creates an almost surreal atmosphere.
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If you’re visiting, consider pairing the trip with a stop at the beach in Abades or nearby coastal trails.
History
The Sanatorio de Abona was constructed in 1943 under the Franco regime, intended to house and isolate patients suffering from leprosy. At the time, Tenerife alone had nearly 200 reported cases, and the area was chosen due to its remote and uninhabited location.
The project included about 40 buildings, designed to be self-sufficient with facilities like a hospital, school, dormitories, crematorium, and a large church.
However, before the project was completed, effective treatment for leprosy was discovered, making the sanatorium obsolete. No patients were ever housed, and construction was halted.
The military used the grounds briefly for training exercises, but it was eventually abandoned again.
In 2002, the property was sold to an Italian investment group with plans to build a resort and golf course, but new tourism control laws prevented development. Since then, the complex has remained untouched.
Main structures include: a hospital; dormitories; crematorium; school; and a large church with a bell tower.
How to Get Here
By Car
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Drive to Abades, located off the TF-1 motorway between El Médano and Tajao.
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You can park in Abades town, just a 5-minute walk from the sanatorium.
By Public Transport
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Take bus 430 from Santa Cruz, or bus 115 / 116 from the south.
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Get off at the Abades stop on the highway and walk down into town.
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