Lagomar Museum
LagOmar Museum is one of Lanzarote’s most unusual architectural attractions, set within the volcanic landscape of Nazaret. Built into the rock of a former quarry, the site combines natural caves, whitewashed walls, tunnels, terraces, water features, and dramatic views to create a space that feels part house, part artwork, and part hidden retreat.
The property is closely linked to César Manrique and Jesús Soto, whose influence helped shape many of Lanzarote’s most distinctive visitor attractions. Their approach focused on working with the island’s volcanic landscape rather than replacing it, and LagOmar is a strong example of that philosophy. The building follows the shape of the rock, using natural formations, curved lines, and local materials to create a design that feels carefully integrated with its surroundings.
LagOmar is also famous for its connection to the actor Omar Sharif, best known for films such as Doctor Zhivago and Lawrence of Arabia. During the early 1970s, Sharif came to Lanzarote while working on a screen adaptation of The Mysterious Island, based on the adventure novel by Jules Verne. While on the island, he is said to have discovered the house in Nazaret and been captivated by its unusual design.
According to local legend, Sharif bought the property but owned it only briefly. The story claims that he lost the house during a game of contract bridge against one of the developers, who was reportedly an expert player. Whether the tale is entirely true or partly myth, it has become one of LagOmar’s best-known stories and adds an extra layer of intrigue to the museum.
The architecture is the main reason to visit. LagOmar is built around the contours of the volcanic quarry, with cave-like rooms, narrow passageways, staircases, pools, and open terraces arranged across several levels. The contrast between dark volcanic rock, smooth white surfaces, greenery, and water gives the site a distinctive visual character.
As visitors move through the museum, each area reveals a different view of the building and surrounding landscape. Curved stairways, arched openings, stepping stones, and shaded corners create a strong sense of exploration. The layout encourages visitors to slow down and notice how the design uses the existing rock formations rather than hiding them.
Natural light plays an important role throughout LagOmar. Openings in the rock allow sunlight to enter the cave-like spaces, while the terraces and outdoor areas offer brighter views across Nazaret and the surrounding volcanic terrain. In the evening, subtle lighting highlights the texture of the stone and gives the site a more atmospheric feel.
Today, LagOmar includes museum spaces, galleries, a restaurant, bar areas, and places used for cultural events. These additions give the building a modern purpose while preserving its original character. Art, architecture, geology, and local history all come together within the same setting.
LagOmar Museum is ideal for travellers interested in César Manrique’s influence, unusual architecture, photography, film history, and Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape. It is also a good stop for visitors exploring the centre or north of the island, particularly alongside Teguise, Haría, Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes, or other Manrique-associated sites.
A visit to LagOmar offers more than a look around a historic house. It is a chance to experience one of Lanzarote’s most imaginative spaces, where volcanic rock, artistic design, local legend, and cinematic history all combine in a memorable setting.