The Cathedral Candy Shop has announced its closure after 110 years of history. This longstanding business located in the heart of La Laguna, at the intersection of San Juan Street and Carrera, adjacent to the Cathedral, has been a landmark in traditional Canarian confectionery for over a century.
Established in 1914 by Mrs. Rafaela, a native of Cadiz who relocated to La Laguna with her military husband, the confectionery initially started as a modest enterprise focused on the artisanal creation of sweets. As time progressed, its first employee, José Hernández Arvelo, the grandfather of the current owner, María Jesús Rodríguez, assumed leadership of the shop, which has remained a family business for three generations.
Throughout its existence, Dulcería La Catedral has adhered to traditional recipes, offering an extensive array of typical Canarian delicacies, featuring up to 117 different types of sweets from across the island and the wider archipelago.
The favourites among customers have always included sweet potato and guava rosquetes, chocolate and cream boats, laguneros, millefeuilles, and almond cake. Furthermore, they promoted products from all the Islands, such as biscuits from La Gomera, quesadillas from El Hierro, Moya cakes from Gran Canaria, and rapaduras from La Palma, thus establishing themselves as a haven for traditional Canarian pastries.
Residents of La Laguna have conveyed their feelings of sadness and nostalgia on social media following the announcement of the shop’s closure. The remarks highlight the importance of the confectionery in the life of the community and underscore its contribution to childhood memories and local identity.
“A focal point since my childhood… La Laguna will never be the same”
“A place that forms part of many childhood memories”
“It is a pity to witness the closing of establishments that have been with us throughout our lives”
“An institution that was always a joy to visit for a sweet treat”
“A business with genuine passion and heart”
An Enduring Era for La Laguna
Dulcería La Catedral was among the six century-old enterprises that persisted in the municipality, as noted in a register prepared by the Department of Commerce of La Laguna City Council.
The legacy of La Catedral went beyond simply selling sweets. The venue became a multi-generational gathering spot, where grandparents, parents, and children continued a shopping tradition that has been sustained for over a century. Despite the trials of time and the evolution of the retail environment, the candy store managed to maintain its character and the loyalty of its patrons.
The final closure of the establishment signifies the end of an era for La Laguna, marking the loss of one of its oldest and most iconic businesses. The Rodríguez family, who operate the confectionery, bids farewell with heartfelt appreciation for the support they have received throughout the years.
The disappearance of Dulcería La Catedral adds to the growing concern regarding the vanishing historic businesses in the city. “There are fewer and fewer places in La Laguna for us to revisit,” “The essence of La Laguna is slowly being eroded…” are among the most frequently echoed sentiments.
La Laguna, renowned for its cultural and architectural heritage, faces the challenge of safeguarding its identity amidst transformations in the commercial landscape.
