To celebrate the 25th anniversary of La Laguna being recognised as a World Heritage City by UNESCO, alongside its rich history spanning 528 years as a hub of cultural convergence from various continents, a time tunnel has been inaugurated this Wednesday on one side of Plaza del Adelantado. This iconic location in the heart of La Laguna allows visitors to experience life in the city at the dawn of the 19th century, set against the backdrop of significant historical upheaval.
This immersive re-enactment of the historical era will be orchestrated by Troysteatro and will be available to the public from 4th to 8th December, both in the morning and in the afternoon.
The unique space-time experience is unfolding in Deán Palahí alley, the narrow, cobblestoned pathway linking Plaza del Adelantado to Viana Street, nestled between the Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena and the Nava de La Laguna Palace.
In addition, there will be dramatized tours named La Laguna, the pillory, and with the hammer giving, highlighting various historical figures and referencing events that occurred in the early 16th century.
Multiple theatre companies are involved, offering engaging tours throughout the week that delve into the rich history and significant cultural values of the city.
“We are commemorating four centuries as the only city in our Archipelago with such distinction – a responsibility we embrace as our greatest challenge. This is not merely an obligation for preserving and safeguarding this legacy but an opportunity to confront the contemporary challenges of the 21st century, which we can surmount successfully through collective unity,” expressed the mayor of La Laguna, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez.
The mayor made these remarks while presiding over the day’s events, during which he welcomed the president of the Parliament of the Canary Islands, Astrid Pérez, along with various other dignitaries attending this significant celebration, ensuring their words will be archived in the city’s book of honour.
With a diverse programme of activities open to residents and the influx of tourists exploring its streets and historical sites, La Laguna kick-started the festivities by unveiling a commemorative Post Office stamp and postmark for this 25th anniversary. This honour was presented in collaboration with Carlos Edel Álvarez, the principal official of the Post Office in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, and Rafael Ángel Raya Sánchez, president of the Aguere Philatelic and Numismatic Group, a group dedicated to preserving this moment in history. The first letter featuring these honours was postmarked to be sent to the Royal Household, making the occasion not only a celebration but also a platform for contemplation and discussion on the city’s protection and sustainability.
Moreover, the city marked this significant date with ceremonial salutes at noon and the ringing of bells across La Laguna, a tribute by its bell ringers, reflecting a long-standing tradition. Just before this, the international symposium “City of La Laguna World Heritage, 25 years later” concluded, bringing together esteemed intellectuals and experts dedicated to the preservation of cultural and natural heritage over the course of two days.
