Cultural Heritage Magazine Showcases La Laguna’s Rich History
La Laguna’s Cultural Heritage Department has launched the second issue of Bernegal, an annual publication highlighting the municipality’s extensive heritage. This edition showcases 25 unique items that encompass everything from everyday objects to institutional symbols, religious imagery, artistic expressions, musical instruments, and industrial heritage.
Cultural Heritage Councillor Adolfo Cordobés and co-director Javier Soler of Cultania, which oversees cultural management, explained that the initiative aims to promote heritage education and raise awareness. According to Cordobés, understanding this legacy is vital for the community’s active role in its preservation.
Cordobés emphasised that this issue reinforces La Laguna’s commitment to protecting and valuing its cultural assets. He noted that the municipality is home to the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Canary Islands and 28 recognised Cultural Assets (BIC). “Our heritage is unique, and we bear the responsibility of safeguarding it for future generations,” he said.
Soler highlighted that the featured pieces often go unnoticed but are crucial for understanding local history. He pointed out the importance of the institutions caring for this heritage, stating that the work involved in documentation and restoration is rarely acknowledged.
Collaboration for this edition included municipal departments, the Cabildo of Tenerife, the University of La Laguna, and various cultural and social entities that provided access to preserved items in locations such as the Casa de Carta Museum and the Cathedral Museum.
The new issue traverses various themes, including daily use items from earlier times, institutional symbolism, artistic expression, and industrial heritage. Notable selected items include an aboriginal dog skull found in Tejina, Casa de Carta’s rat trap, the Royal Banner, and machinery from the former COCAL.
Bernegal will be available in physical format at municipal tourist information offices and various local institutions, with a digital version accessible on the municipality’s website.
