Undoubtedly, it stands as one of the most photographed sights in Tenerife. A multitude of visitors flock to this spot, and for good reason: there is only one other such creation in the world that can parallel the Flower Clock in García Sanabria Park, located in Santa Cruz. Since its donation to the city in 1958, accompanied by two black swans, it has been a focus of admiration, but regrettably, also the target of considerable vandalism.
The iconic Flower Clock is positioned at the main entrance of García Sanabria Park, specifically in the square named after Peder Larsen, Consul of Denmark. This area pays tribute to the diplomat, who generously gifted this remarkable clock to the city in 1958. He was known to frequent the park daily post-lunch, where he relished strolling and conversing with friends. At that time, he also opted to donate the two black swans for the pond that once existed in the park.
Peder Cristian Larsen, born in Nykøbing Mors (Denmark) on May 1, 1913, arrived in Santa Cruz de Tenerife on February 9, 1938, to serve as secretary at the Danish Consulate, a role previously held by Guillermo H. Olsen.
Upon Mr. Olsen’s appointment as Consul General of Denmark, Mr. Larsen, who had already been appointed Vice Consul, took over both his duties and those of the Consul of Finland. Thanks to his exceptional contributions, he came to be known as the Consul of Denmark in Tenerife and the Consul of Tenerife in Denmark.
Since 1979, he has been recognised as an adopted son of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, largely due to the influence of the Flower Clock. He resided in the capital until 1996, the year of his passing.
What makes the Flower Clock unique?
Always adorned with seasonal blooms, it holds the distinction of being the only clock of its kind in the world due to the presence of a second-hand, as noted by José Manuel Ledesma, the official chronicler of Santa Cruz.
The clock was constructed in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, by Favag, who had previously created another clock just three years prior, which was installed in Geneva. In its early days, any malfunction would require it to be shipped back to Switzerland for repairs. However, maintenance is now conducted in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, following modifications by the Viguesa Pagán company.
Vandalism costing thousands of euros
The Public Services Department of the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council has bolstered security safeguards around the Flower Clock. This action was deemed necessary after vandalism inflicted damage estimated between €2,500 and €6,500. According to official statistics, there are typically between eight and ten incidents of this nature each year. Furthermore, the cost for each repair can range from €265 to €530, depending on the duration required for restoration.
In addition to its counterpart in Geneva, the Flower Clock has other relatives, such as the one in Viña del Mar, Chile, which was inaugurated on May 15, 1962, in conjunction with that year’s World Cup, of which Viña del Mar was one of the host cities.
