La Laguna Pushes for Cultural Heritage Status for Magec Path in Punta del Hidalgo

In a noteworthy development, the Full Council of La Laguna has taken a decisive step towards recognizing the Senda de Magec as a Cultural Asset of Interest (BIC). This initiative follows a compelling recommendation from the environmental organization Drago Verdes Canarias, which has highlighted the path’s historical and cultural significance.

A Bridge to Ancestral Traditions

The Senda de Magec is more than just a hiking trail; it represents a crucial connection between Punta del Hidalgo and the Anaga massif. Historically, this route was utilized by the Guanches, the indigenous people of Tenerife, who relied on it to access vital resources and sacred sites. The path is a living testament to the cultural practices of the Guanche civilization, offering access to altars, sanctuaries, and pilgrimage locations that were integral to their spiritual life.

The proposal to grant the Senda de Magec BIC status will be submitted to the Tenerife Cabildo after a comprehensive evaluation by the Council of Heritage. This initiative aims to ensure the preservation of the trail’s cultural and historical importance, particularly its connection to the nearby village of Chinamada, which is rich in Guanche heritage.

Trail Features and Environmental Concerns

The Senda de Magec follows the PR TF-10 trail, linking the Valley of Aramuygo, now referred to as La Percuna, with Chinamada. Hikers traversing this picturesque path can discover up to nine significant rock art stations, along with various isolated basins that hold historical importance. These features not only enhance the trail’s aesthetic appeal but also serve as crucial links to the island’s past.

However, a recent technical report from Drago Verdes Canarias has raised serious concerns about the impact of increased foot traffic on the trail. The annual K-42 race and the growing number of hikers have led to accelerated erosion of the steps and surfaces that showcase ancient rock engravings. This deterioration poses a significant threat to the integrity of these engravings, as well as the surrounding basins and channels that are vital to understanding the region’s archaeological context.

Safeguarding Cultural Significance

The erosion of the Senda de Magec not only endangers its physical structure but also jeopardizes the scientific understanding of Guanche spirituality and archaeoastronomy. Once a sacred route, the trail risks being reduced to a mere sports circuit, losing its cultural and symbolic significance in the process.

Carmen Peña, a councillor from Drago Verdes Canarias, passionately defended the motion during the council’s discussions. She emphasized that the Senda de Magec is not just any path; it is a cultural route of exceptional value that connects the everyday lives of the Guanches with their sacred practices. Peña’s remarks underscored the need to recognize and protect the trail’s historical context.

While Peña expressed strong support for promoting sports and healthy lifestyles, she cautioned against compromising the historical integrity of such a significant site. She urged the governing team of the Council, which includes members from the PSOE and Canary Coalition, to promptly initiate the bureaucratic process for the BIC declaration. Peña stressed the importance of preserving Guanche heritage for future generations, highlighting that the trail is a vital link to the island’s past.

Moreover, Peña suggested that maintaining the Senda de Magec could serve as an open-air laboratory for studying Guanche archaeology and the intricate relationship between landscape and astronomy. She proposed that enhancing the trail’s value could also support the development of educational programs focused on heritage, fostering a deeper understanding of the Guanche culture among both locals and visitors.

The motion presented by Drago Verdes Canarias received unanimous approval during the plenary session held on November 6, marking a pivotal step towards safeguarding this culturally rich path. The council’s decision reflects a growing recognition of the need to balance the promotion of outdoor activities with the preservation of historical and cultural sites.

Key points

• The Senda de Magec connects Punta del Hidalgo with the Anaga massif, historically used by the Guanches.
• The Full Council of La Laguna has proposed the trail for BIC designation to protect its cultural significance.
• Increased foot traffic is causing erosion of the trail and its ancient rock engravings.
• The trail features nine significant rock art stations and various historical basins.
• Carmen Peña emphasized the cultural and historical importance of the route during the council discussions.
• The motion for BIC designation was unanimously approved on November 6, reflecting a commitment to heritage preservation.