SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 5 Aug. –
The Island Council of Tenerife, under its Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security and Emergencies department, has restored the Camino Viejo de Candelaria, a historic route connecting the towns of La Laguna, Santa Cruz, El Rosario, and Candelaria. This route, declared a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC) since 2008, has been rehabilitated to preserve its heritage value.
The Council members, including Blanca Pérez, Isabel de Esteban, Iván Martín, Pedro Millán, and Sebastián Gil from the Mountaineering Federation of Tenerife, visited the restored path on Monday.
Blanca Pérez highlighted the extensive work carried out by different teams to ensure the path’s readiness for the ongoing pilgrimage to Candelaria, a significant religious event for the region. Pedro Millán mentioned the improvements made to the path, including weed removal and layout restoration, along with the installation of informational signs.
Isabel de Esteban emphasized the coordinated efforts taken to restore this historic path, recognised for its cultural and scenic importance.
The Camino Viejo de Candelaria, spanning 21.2 kilometres, has been a key pilgrimage route linked to the Virgin of Candelaria, the Patron Saint of the Canary Islands, since the 16th century. This route attracts thousands of worshippers during the annual festival on August 15th.
The path, traversing the midlands of several towns, showcases abandoned farmhouses, ravines, and old crop fields, highlighting its intrinsic value. The restoration work conducted by the Council aimed at ensuring the safety and preservation of this historic route for the thousands of visitors during the festival.
TIPS FOR EXPLORING THE ANCIENT ROUTE.
It is recommended to be accompanied by a guide and avoid the hottest hours. Visitors should come prepared with a hat, comfortable footwear, and sufficient water for the journey. The path includes steep sections and uneven terrain, making it essential for visitors to tread carefully and respect the surroundings.
Open fires are strictly prohibited, and visitors are urged to dispose of waste responsibly and show respect towards local residents and their property.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND.
The Camino Viejo de Candelaria holds significant historical and ethnographic value, serving as the ancient route connecting La Laguna with Candelaria. Dating back to 1499, this pilgrimage route to the sanctuary of the Virgin of Candelaria has endured through the centuries.
In 2008, sections of this route were designated as a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC) for their historical significance. Efforts have been underway since 2012 to restore and promote awareness of this unique path, alongside other pilgrimage routes and culturally significant trails in the region.
The historical route passes through diverse landscapes, showcasing the agricultural heritage of the Canary Islands. Collaborative initiatives are ongoing to enhance the signage, safety, and preservation of these traditional routes, starting with the Camino Viejo de Candelaria.
The restored route takes visitors through various landmarks, including archaeological sites, traditional villages, and natural caves, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
