Originating from Plaza de la Cruz de Piedra and merging with the Glorieta del Padre Anchieta (Glorieta del Brasil), this avenue commemorates the renowned playwright Ángel Guimerá Jorge, a native of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Previously named Avenida de la Candelaria, it was renamed Ángel Guimerá Avenue in honor of the distinguished playwright. Furthermore, its second section remains as Avenida de la Candelaria, extending from San Antonio Street to San Benito.
This avenue predominantly hosts offices and facilities of the University of La Laguna, with notable landmarks such as the San Fernando College and the iconic central university building, designed by architect José Enrique Marrero Gifted. The Auditorium, housed within this building, plays a pivotal role as a noble hall. Adjacent to the university campus stands the Higher Polytechnic School of Engineering, along with the Teachers’ Center and various sports facilities. The route concludes with the modern San Cristóbal de La Laguna Bus Interchange and public car parking, inaugurated in 2011, offering an array of services including bus, taxi, cafeteria, and bazaar amenities, alongside designated areas for motorcycles and bicycles. Additionally, the avenue serves as a pivotal interchange point for the bus and tram lines connecting Santa Cruz to La Laguna.
STONE CROSS SQUARE
The history of the Cruz de Piedra dates back to the 1560 session of the Cabildo, marking the initiation of the street works. The Stone Cross was relocated over the years due to various reasons and underwent restoration after being vandalized in 2007, emphasizing its enduring significance to the city.
GLORIETA DEL BRASIL (POPULARLY GLORIETA DEL PADRE ANCHIETA)
Transitioning from the avenue leads to the Glorieta del Brasil, currently under renovation, featuring the sculpture of the lagoon saint crafted by the Italian-Brazilian sculptor Bruno Giorgi. The monument holds historical significance, having arrived in pieces from Brazil and being inaugurated in 1960.
WHO WAS ANGEL GUIMERÁ?
Ángel Guimerá Jorge, a distinguished playwright, was born in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in 1845. His notable works, such as Mary Rose, The Wheat Festival, and Terra Baixa, achieved widespread acclaim, with the latter being translated into Spanish. Despite being proposed for the Nobel Prize in Literature, he was never awarded the honor. His legacy lives on, with the Catalan people honoring his memory at the Montjuic cemetery after his passing in 1924.
