The Cuarteles del Cristo, a notable site in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, is on the verge of a significant transformation in its narrative. Established in 1843 and serving military purposes for 170 years, this distinguished establishment has been taken over by the Tenerife Cabildo with plans to evolve it into a pivotal social and healthcare facility. With an investment of 8.1 million euros, this initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for elderly and disabled individuals on the island, addressing the growing demand for specialised care.
The acquisition, spearheaded by the Cabildo leadership team under its president, Rosa Dávila, has been labelled a historic achievement. “The Christ Barracks, which has symbolised a military role for many years, will be transformed into a sanctuary of care and hope for those who require it most. This decision embodies our dedication to the community and the responsible stewardship of our heritage,” Dávila remarked.
The agreement with the Ministry of Defence, which has been in negotiation for several years, was finalised in under nine months due to adept and decisive handling. “In less than a year, we managed to conclude an agreement that had been unresolved for years. This exemplifies our commitment to act swiftly and effectively for the benefit of our community,” stated the president.
Care for the elderly
The new socio-health complex is set to include residences based on the “cohousing” model, practical homes for older adults with lower levels of dependence, and dedicated centres for those in need of higher levels of assistance. Furthermore, there will be an extensive day centre designed to provide comprehensive care and communal services.
The transformation of the Cristo Barracks will create jobs and stimulate the local economy.
“We envision this space not merely as a place of care, but as a genuine home for our elderly and disabled community members, a setting where they can feel embraced, respected, and valued. We aspire to foster a nurturing and adaptable environment that not only meets their fundamental needs but also enhances their emotional well-being, independence, and connection to their families,” elaborated Dávila.
The primary aim of this initiative is to address the surging demand for social and healthcare placements in the metropolitan area, where 46% of the island’s population over the age of 65 resides. Tenerife is currently grappling with a substantial shortfall in residential and day care services for the elderly and disabled individuals.
Following the acquisition of the Cristo Barracks, the Cabildo’s Social Action department will spearhead the subsequent actions to convert the space into a socio-health complex.
In this regard, an initial allocation of 100,000 euros has been planned in the budget for the Insular Institute of Social and Socio-Health Care (IASS) for 2024, earmarked for technical studies and planning activities. This marks the first step towards bringing to fruition a project that will revolutionise social and health care on our island, catering to the rising demands for places and services tailored to the population’s needs.
Additional jobs and prospects
Beyond its social significance, the conversion of the Cuarteles del Cristo will positively influence the local economy. The construction of the complex will generate jobs within the construction sector, while its operational phase will create lasting employment opportunities in healthcare, administrative, and general service areas.

Visit of the authorities to the facilities. / The Day
Situated in the very heart of La Laguna, this initiative will also invigorate local commerce and aid in revitalising the economic structure of the area. “This project not only benefits those who will reside here but also stimulates the local economy, attracts employment, and strengthens the social framework of our island,” emphasised the president.
This undertaking is a component of a broader strategy by the Island Council and the Government of the Canary Islands to enhance social and healthcare provisions on the island. In 2024, the Minister of Social Welfare, Equality, Youth, Children and Families, Candelaria Delgado, alongside the president of the Cabildo, signed an agreement to establish 418 new social and healthcare placements in Tenerife, with a collective investment of 128 million euros.
For Rosa Dávila, the acquisition and refurbishment of the Cristo Barracks signify much more than just an infrastructure initiative. “It stands as a declaration of principles regarding Tenerife’s priorities, which fundamentally revolve around caring for our residents and approaching the future with optimism and resolve. This socio-health complex will serve as a legacy for forthcoming generations, a representation of how the island can adapt to face the challenges of the 21st century.”
Disagreements with the Ministry of Defence
The acquisition of the Cristo Barracks has encountered its fair share of contention. During discussions, the Ministry of Defence suggested the possibility of repurposing the property into a centre for receiving immigrants, considering the increasing migratory pressures affecting the Islands, particularly Tenerife.
This proposition elicited an immediate rebuttal from the Cabildo president, Rosa Dávila, who staunchly asserted that the Cristo Barracks should be allocated for social and health purposes. “Our foremost concern is the elderly and individuals who require a dignified space that caters to their needs. We are not opposed to assisting those seeking a better future, as we do this every day; however, we assert that this site must prioritise the urgent challenges facing our community,” Dávila contended during several public addresses.
Moreover, the president of the Cabildo has condemned the neglect of the Canary Islands, which may remain the only region absorbing an unfair share of the migrant influx while others resort to silence or apathy. “It is disgraceful that regarding a humanitarian crisis of this magnitude, the two main political parties continue to exploit migration as a tool for conflict and obstruction,” she declared.