La Laguna to Celebrate 25 Years as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Official Anthem
La Laguna is poised to unveil its inaugural official anthem in December, coinciding with the conclusion of the city’s 25th anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This momentous occasion not only highlights the city’s rich cultural heritage but also serves as a platform for future initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting its unique identity.
Anthem and Landmark Inauguration
The highly anticipated anthem, composed by Diego Navarro, will be presented during a special ceremony that also marks the inauguration of the Punto Cero. This landmark will symbolize the geometric center of La Laguna’s foundational layout, establishing itself as a significant urban milestone within the historic district. The unveiling of the anthem is expected to resonate deeply with residents and visitors alike, encapsulating the spirit of La Laguna’s vibrant history and cultural significance.
Cultural Celebrations Planned
From December 1 to 4, a series of cultural events will take place to commemorate this milestone. The closing program will feature a diverse array of activities, including discussion forums, exhibitions, and an audiovisual show at the Cathedral. These events aim to engage the community and foster a sense of pride in La Laguna’s heritage. Artistic displays will also be launched, culminating in a grand finale at the Teatro Leal, where attendees can expect an unforgettable celebration of local talent and creativity.
Reflections on Heritage and Future Initiatives
Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez emphasized that this anniversary is more than a mere institutional celebration; it serves as a platform to reaffirm La Laguna’s unique cultural significance within the Canary Islands. The city stands out as the only one in the archipelago with this UNESCO designation, making this anniversary a pivotal moment for reflection and future planning. The celebrations have sparked discussions about the city’s future and its role in promoting cultural heritage, ensuring that La Laguna remains a vibrant center for arts and culture.
The press conference announcing these events featured key figures, including Rosa Dávila, president of the Cabildo, and Francisco García, rector of the University of La Laguna, among others. Their presence underscores the collaborative effort among various institutions, including the Town Hall, Cabildo, and the Government of the Canary Islands. This partnership highlights the importance of community involvement in preserving La Laguna’s cultural legacy.
The Cabildo has allocated €500,000 to support the anniversary celebrations and initiate the Director’s Plan for the Illumination of the Historic Site, further enhancing the cultural landscape of La Laguna. This investment not only aims to beautify the city but also to attract more visitors, thereby boosting the local economy and fostering a deeper appreciation for its historical significance.
International sessions will address themes such as diversity, sustainability, and migration, featuring prominent speakers like Edith Brown Weiss and Michelle Alonso. These discussions will provide valuable insights into global issues while connecting them to La Laguna’s unique context. Workshops led by Brazilian photographer Angélica Dass will also engage educators and families, alongside her exhibition at Casa Anchieta, offering a platform for artistic expression and community engagement.
The unveiling of the Punto Cero will take place on December 2, followed by a public audiovisual display on the Cathedral’s lateral façade. This initiative aims to promote heritage as a dynamic public space, inviting residents and visitors to interact with La Laguna’s history in innovative ways. Additional exhibitions are planned in the historic center, along with a photographic display in Madrid, designed to enhance the city’s cultural image and reach a broader audience.
The final ceremony on December 4 will not only celebrate the 25th anniversary but also mark the 26th year since La Laguna’s UNESCO declaration. During this event, the new anthem will be introduced as a sonic symbol of the city, encapsulating the hopes and aspirations of its people. The Town Hall has indicated that this occasion will not signify an end but rather the beginning of new initiatives, including the activation of the City’s Historic Management Plan and the upcoming update of the Special Protection Plan in 2026. These efforts aim to establish La Laguna as a benchmark for heritage preservation and cultural promotion.
Key points
- La Laguna will unveil its first official anthem in December.
- The event marks the conclusion of the city’s 25th anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Punto Cero will be inaugurated as a significant urban landmark.
- A series of cultural activities will take place from December 1 to 4.
- The Cabildo has invested €500,000 for anniversary activities and heritage illumination plans.
- International discussions on diversity and sustainability will feature notable speakers.
- The final ceremony will coincide with the 26th anniversary of the UNESCO designation.
