When the Europeans arrived on the island Tenerife was divided into nine kingdoms or "menceyatos," each one governed by a "Mencey" (king). In the district of Candelaria, near the capital of the island, there is a collection of huge, bronze sculptures that represent these last nine kings. The statues are located in the Plaza de la Candelaria next to the basilica of Candelaria.
The STATUES are of
Acaymo, Mencey of Tacoronte;
Adjona, Mencey de Abona;
Anaterve, Mencey of Güímar;
Bencomo, Mencey of Taoro;
Beneharo, Mencey of Anaga;
Pelicar, Mencey of Icod;
Pelinor, Mencey of Adeje;
Romen, Mencey of Daute;
Tegueste, Mencey of Tegueste.
