Tenerife’s Cabildo Takes Bold Steps to Preserve Religious Heritage

The Cabildo of Tenerife has embarked on a transformative journey to enhance the conservation of its rich religious heritage through newly forged collaboration agreements with the Diocese. This initiative marks a significant commitment to safeguarding the island’s cultural identity and historical treasures.

Revitalizing Cultural Heritage Efforts

As part of the Insular Historical Heritage Programme for the years 2023-2027, the Cabildo is reaffirming its dedication to preserving the island’s cultural and historical legacy, with a particular focus on its religious assets. The recent signing of three amendments to the collaboration agreement with the Diocese of Tenerife represents a pivotal moment in this initiative. The signing ceremony took place in the Noble Hall, attended by influential figures such as the insular president, Rosa Dávila, the Bishop of Tenerife, Eloy Santiago, and the director of Historical Heritage, Isabel de Esteban.

Rosa Dávila underscored the significance of the collaborative efforts between the Department of Historical Heritage and the Diocese. She articulated that these agreements are designed to enhance the conservation of artistic works, unique musical organs, and significant buildings, thereby ensuring the preservation of a legacy that is integral to the island’s identity. Dávila emphasized that historical heritage should actively contribute to the social, economic, and cultural fabric of the island, promoting sustainable development and tourism while creating specialized job opportunities for the local community.

Substantial Financial Investment in Restoration Initiatives

From 2023 to 2025, the Cabildo has committed over 6 million euros for collaborative projects with the Diocese. This substantial funding will support a variety of restoration efforts, including the rehabilitation of churches, chapels, and other protected structures, as well as the recovery of altarpieces and historical organs. A particularly noteworthy project involves the digitization of the Diocese’s Historical Archive, which is fully financed by the Cabildo. This initiative will ensure public access to documents of significant historical and genealogical importance, making the island’s rich history more accessible to residents and visitors alike.

Bishop Eloy Santiago expressed his gratitude for the ongoing collaboration between the Cabildo and the Diocese, acknowledging the mutual commitment to valuing and preserving the island’s rich heritage. He highlighted the importance of these efforts in fostering a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical significance of Tenerife’s religious sites.

Targeted Restoration Projects in Progress

The updated collaboration agreement outlines specific plans for the restoration of several culturally significant buildings across the island. In Güímar, the Church of Santo Domingo, recognized as a Cultural Asset of Interest (BIC), is set to undergo a comprehensive restoration of its roof. This project has a budget of €358,010.81, with the Cabildo contributing €159,748.11 to ensure the preservation of this important landmark.

Meanwhile, in San Juan de La Rambla, the Church of San Juan Bautista will be rehabilitated, involving extensive work on the roof, carpentry, installations, and finishes. This ambitious project has a total budget of €1,158,530.18, with the Cabildo providing a significant contribution of €926,824.14, demonstrating its commitment to restoring this vital piece of the island’s heritage.

In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora de Regla, which is listed in the municipal protection catalogue, will also see substantial interventions. The restoration will focus on structural improvements, façade enhancements, and updates to the lighting system, with a total investment of €853,339.61, including a contribution of €682,671.68 from the Cabildo. This project aims to revitalize the hermitage, ensuring it remains a cherished site for worship and community gatherings.

Additionally, the Hermitage of San Telmo in the capital will also be restored, further emphasizing the Cabildo’s unwavering commitment to preserving Tenerife’s religious heritage. These targeted restoration projects not only aim to maintain the structural integrity of these historical sites but also to enhance their aesthetic appeal and functionality for future generations.

Key points

• The Cabildo of Tenerife signed three amendments to enhance collaboration with the Diocese for heritage conservation.
• Over 6 million euros are allocated for joint initiatives between 2023 and 2025.
• Specific restoration projects include the Church of Santo Domingo and the Church of San Juan Bautista.
• The digitization of the Diocese’s Historical Archive is fully funded by the Cabildo.
• Rosa Dávila emphasizes the importance of historical heritage in the island’s identity and economic development.