The Old Camino de Candelaria, a historic pathway linking several municipalities across the island of Tenerife to the Basilica of the Virgin of Candelaria, will be the backdrop for three pilgrimage routes organised by the Cabildo de Tenerife in honour of the feast of the Virgin of Candelaria, celebrated this Sunday, February 2.
These events, coordinated via the Environmental Participation and Volunteer Office, aim to enhance the cultural and spiritual significance of this path, which has been classified as a Cultural Interest (BIC) in the historical site category since 2008.
The routes are set to commence on Saturday, February 1, from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, La Laguna, and El Rosario, providing pilgrims with a safe and rewarding experience along one of the island’s most iconic paths.
The first pilgrimage will depart from Santa Cruz at 03.00. Participants will traverse the dairy route before merging onto the historic road of Candelaria. This itinerary is organised by the Montañeros de Nivaria club and the Mountaineering Insular Federation of Tenerife, in partnership with the Santa Cruz Sustainable Foundation and the Civil Protection of the municipality.
The second route will set off from La Laguna at 08.00, following the ancient road of Candelaria from the municipality. Similar to the previous route, this pilgrimage is co-ordinated by the Montañeros Club of Nivaria and the Insular Federation of Mountaineering, with assistance from the Civil Protection of La Laguna.
The third option to the Basilica of the Virgin of Candelaria will commence in the municipality of El Rosario at 08.30, covering the relevant section of the historic road. This initiative is managed by the Terramare Association and the City Council of El Rosario, with support from the Civil Protection of the municipality.
A Restored Heritage
The Minister of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security, and Emergencies, Blanca Pérez, emphasises the significance of these activities, which not only connect individuals with their heritage but also strengthen the cultural value of the Old Camino de Candelaria.
“It serves as an excellent opportunity to impart our ancestors’ history to the younger generation while appreciating one of the most historic routes linking Santa Cruz, La Laguna, and El Rosario with Candelaria,” Pérez stated. She added that “in August of last year, we completed enhancements to the route and its signage, ensuring the pilgrims can travel safely. Nonetheless, we advise wearing appropriate footwear and bringing essential items such as water and snacks for the journey.”
Points of Interest Along the Route
This pathway, particularly busy at this time of year, is marked by several highlights, including the residence of the famed corsair Amaro Pargo. Additionally, the Hermitage of the Rosary signifies one of the most notable segments of the route, and finally, the hamlet of Pasacola features its natural caves and ancient pens, remnants of past rural life.
The pilgrimage will conclude in Candelaria, melding tradition, history, and faith. This road, along with those of La Orotava and the Socorro in Güímar, is one of the few in Tenerife designated as a cultural interest asset, underscoring its historical and cultural importance. Since late 2012, various organisations have collaborated on the comprehensive restoration of this key infrastructure in the VIpeda connection with Candelaria, facilitating investments in signage, the refurbishment of deteriorating sections, and the encouragement of community involvement.
On February 1, the historic road will once again be bustling with thousands of pilgrims who, following in their ancestors’ footsteps, will pay tribute to the Brown Virgin. This tradition persists, reinforcing the bond between history, spirituality, and community.
