Yesterday, La Laguna commenced its Big Week of events to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its designation as a World Heritage Site. On this day, around 1,500 pupils from various schools in the municipality paraded through its historic streets, traversing a layout designed without walls, reflecting a peaceful city that welcomes the world. This event was meant to convey a message of unity, coexistence, and peace; an appeal that, from childhood in this small corner of the Atlantic, has resonated with the need for dialogue and contemplation regarding the legacy we leave for future generations.
The mayor, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez (PSOE), welcomed the throng of students participating in the Walk for Peace at the Plaza del Adelantado, a name that pays homage to its founder and has served as the political hub of the city since the early 16th century. Notably, at that time, the area was not fortified and was developed under Renaissance principles, becoming a model for many later Latin American cities.
“On 4th December 1999, La Laguna received the honour of being designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, a title that brings us great pride and shapes the recent history of our municipality. This 25th anniversary serves as a reaffirmation of our commitment to continue fostering a city that cherishes and takes pride in its heritage, one that can adapt to the future while balancing preservation with the needs of its residents,” Gutiérrez reflected.
He added, “During this time of considerable conflict and uncertainty, we once again voice a vital message of peace, inscribed in our streets and monuments 528 years ago, which we share with the world as a call to reflect on the legacy we will pass on to the children of our planet.”
Pupils from Lara Rodríguez Primary, including Sara Feliciano and Adriana Pérez from CEIP Camino Largo, led the reading of the manifesto, after which the Walk for Peace commenced, navigating the main thoroughfares of the historic city. Following the reading, a sheriff on horseback, dressed in period attire, paraded through the streets of the historical centre to herald the start of the Big Week festivities.
This tradition, revived in 2021, harks back to the ancient horse-mounted criers of the 16th century, serving as a reminder of its origins. La Laguna, in honour of this unique band, celebrates a recognition that fills all its citizens with pride and compels us to strive towards preserving such a remarkable historical legacy.
The celebrations for this anniversary continued in the afternoon when the City Council presented the key to the city to Maisa Navarro, a professor of Art History at the University of La Laguna, in appreciation of her dedication to the study, promotion, and protection of the cultural heritage within its significant historical centre.
The very design of the key, crafted especially for this occasion by the local workshop Krijer Hermanos Orfebres, pays tribute to La Laguna’s roots.
Gutiérrez acknowledged the “imperative to recognise the undeniable impact of Navarro on a milestone that has profoundly shaped the municipality’s future. Her efforts, dedication, and leadership were instrumental in securing UNESCO recognition.”
At night, the Cathedral was adorned splendidly to host the Chaxiraxi opera, which depicted the discovery of the Virgin of Candelaria, framed within the celebration of the 25th anniversary of La Laguna as a Heritage City. Performed by the contemporary orchestra and choir of Tenerife, the work, with a libretto by Benito Cabrera and direction by Emilio Coello, featured music inspired by Fray Alonso de Espinosa’s book.
