Much of Lanzarote’s original colonial Spanish architecture is in ruins, so while it’s worth paying a visit to the remains of the 15th century forts and castles, don’t expect their original grandeur to be intact. However, you shouldn’t mourn the loss of these historical structures for too long, because the present architecture of Lanzarote’s villages and towns is just as impressive in a less imposing way.

The primary concern among villagers in Lanzarote is climate: buildings are expected to minimize the heat and maximize rain capture. Sloping roofs with gutters piped into wells ensure that not a single drop of water is wasted – a crucial design feature, considering it usually rains about six inches or less every year. Homes are painted white to help keep interiors cool and deflect the harsh midday sunlight. Lanzarote’s natural environment often enhances the architectural beauty of its man-made structures: the white paint contrasts stunningly with black hills of lava, and pointed roofs mimic the dormant volcanoes in the distance.

Another architectural feature of the villages of Lanzarote is the use of the color green on window trim and door frames. Traditionally, fishing boats were painted green, so villagers would utilize the extra paint for their houses.