Casa Juanita

Nestled along the rugged volcanic coastline of Arrieta, a quaint fishing village in northern Lanzarote, Casa Juanita—affectionately known as the "House of Colors," "The Blue House," or "La Casa China"—stands as a whimsical architectural outlier amid the island's signature whitewashed buildings. Built in 1916, this charming structure boasts a vibrant blue-and-white facade, turquoise shutters that shimmer under the Canary sun, and a distinctive pagoda-style red roof reminiscent of Eastern influences, evoking the playful form of a doll's house.

A Heartfelt History

The story behind Casa Juanita is one of poignant love and tragedy. Originally from Haría on Lanzarote, Don Juan de León Perdomo emigrated to Argentina in the late 19th century, amassing a fortune in wheat trading. There, he married Doña Juana Alemán and welcomed their daughter, Juanita, in 1904. When young Juanita fell gravely ill with tuberculosis, doctors recommended the healing sea air and iodine-rich environment of the ocean. The family returned to Lanzarote in 1915, where Don Juan purchased a seaside plot in Arrieta and renovated a near-ruinous existing home, modeling it after his daughter's beloved dollhouse to bring her joy.

Tragically, Juanita enjoyed just five happy years in her namesake home before passing away in 1921 at age 17. Her grave rests in Haría cemetery, but her spirit endures in the house, which fell into disrepair after her parents' deaths. Lovingly restored in the early 2000s, it is now privately owned by a family from Arrecife and occasionally rented as a holiday retreat, preserving its legacy as a symbol of familial devotion.

A Must-See Landmark

Today, Casa Juanita captivates visitors as one of Lanzarote's most photogenic spots, drawing photographers, architecture enthusiasts, and curious travelers. Perched steps from Playa de la Garita—a golden-sand beach ideal for surfing and barefoot strolls—the house offers serene ocean views and a peaceful escape. Though not open to the public, its exterior alone is a vibrant burst of color against the black lava landscape, blending whimsy with the island's raw natural beauty.

Local lore whispers of gentle hauntings, with tales of Juanita's playful presence adding a layer of enchantment. Pair a visit with a stroll along Arrieta's seafront promenade to the nearby port, where colorful fishing boats bob and fresh seafood restaurants beckon. Easily accessible by car from Lanzarote Airport (about 30 minutes), it's a perfect detour en route to northern gems like Jameos del Agua or Mirador del Río.

In Arrieta's timeless embrace of sea and stone, Casa Juanita reminds us that even in sorrow, beauty—and a touch of magic—can bloom.