On the east coast of Tenerife, south of Santa Cruz, stand six mysterious step pyramids of which archaeologists have yet to discern the origin. The pyramids were initially thought to be just remains of agricultural stone terraces, or random piles of stone cleared from fields by early Spanish settlers. However Thor Heyerdahl, the Norwegian anthropologist who lived in Guimar on Tenerife until his death in 2002, thought differently. His research indicated that the pyramids were constructed on similar principles to those in Mexico, Peru and ancient Mesopotamia. The pyramids are now enclosed in an Ethnographic Park; the site includes a museum, life-size replica of Heyerdahl's reed ship Kontiki, a cafeteria and souvenir shop.

Address: Calle Chacona, Guimar

Website: www.piramidesdeguimar.net

Telephone: 922 514 510

Opening times: Daily from 9.30am to 6pm

Admission: €11 (adults), €5.50 (children 9-12)