La Laguna Takes Action to Protect the Senda de Magec as a Cultural Landmark

The municipal assembly of La Laguna has taken a decisive step towards preserving the Senda de Magec, a culturally significant trail that links Punta del Hidalgo and Chinamada. This unanimous resolution reflects the community’s commitment to safeguarding an important piece of their heritage.

Exploring the Trail’s Rich Historical Context

The Senda de Magec, an ancient pathway that forms part of the PR TF-10 trail, is more than just a route; it is a vital connection between the Valley of Aramuygo, now known as La Percuna, and Chinamada, situated within the breathtaking Anaga massif. This trail is distinguished by its nine primary rock art stations and numerous isolated cup marks, which serve as a testament to the area’s rich historical and cultural legacy.

Historically, the Senda de Magec has been utilized since the time of the Guanches, the indigenous people of the Canary Islands. The trail not only facilitated daily activities but also played a crucial role in spiritual practices, particularly those linked to the solar calendar. The presence of rock engravings along the path highlights the deep connection between the landscape and the cultural practices of the Guanche people, making it a site of immense archaeological significance.

Addressing Erosion and Threats to Cultural Integrity

A recent technical report reviewed by Drago Verdes Canarias has raised serious concerns regarding the increasing erosion of the Senda de Magec, primarily attributed to foot traffic from hikers and participants in events such as the K-42 race. This heightened activity poses a significant threat to the structural integrity of the stairs and surfaces embellished with ancient rock engravings, risking potential collapses or irreversible damage to this invaluable heritage site.

The report further emphasizes the risk of losing critical scientific data that is essential for understanding Guanche spirituality and archaeoastronomy. The transformation of the ritual landscape into a sporting circuit not only jeopardizes the physical state of the trail but also diminishes its cultural significance, leading to a descontextualization that could erase the historical narratives tied to this ancient route.

Passionate Advocacy for Cultural Preservation

Councilwoman Carmen Peña, representing Drago Verdes Canarias, has emerged as a passionate advocate for the Senda de Magec, asserting that it is not merely a pathway but a cultural route of extraordinary importance. During the assembly, she emphasized the trail’s historical usage dating back to the Guanches and its role in connecting everyday life with sacred practices.

While Peña acknowledged the value of sports and outdoor activities, she firmly insisted that such pursuits should not come at the expense of the integrity of a site with exceptional heritage value. She called upon the local government, which includes representatives from PSOE and Coalición Canaria, to fulfill its commitment to initiate the process for declaring the Senda de Magec as a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC), a designation that would provide legal protection and recognition of its cultural significance.

Opportunities for Research and Educational Initiatives

The preservation of the Senda de Magec presents an invaluable opportunity for research and education. Peña proposed that the trail could serve as an outdoor laboratory for studying Guanche archaeology and the intricate relationship between landscape and astronomy. Such initiatives could significantly enhance public awareness and appreciation of the site, fostering a deeper understanding of its cultural and historical context.

The proposal was presented during the plenary session on November 6, where it received unanimous support from all municipal groups. This collective backing marks a significant milestone in the efforts to protect and promote this culturally rich pathway, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the historical narratives embedded within the Senda de Magec.

Key points

• La Laguna’s municipal assembly unanimously approved a motion to protect Senda de Magec.
• The trail connects Punta del Hidalgo and Chinamada and is part of the PR TF-10 route.
• There are nine primary rock art stations along the Senda de Magec.
• A technical report warns of erosion risks due to increased foot traffic.
• The report highlights the potential loss of scientific information related to Guanche culture.
• Councilwoman Carmen Peña advocates for the trail’s cultural significance and preservation.
• The proposal received unanimous backing from all municipal groups during the plenary session.