Time Travel to the Past: Santiago del Teide Recreates Historical Trade
This Sunday, June 28, residents and visitors of Santiago del Teide will step back in time for a recreation of historical trade practices. The event begins at 10 AM in San Francisco de La Montañeta, Garachico, before moving on to San José de Los Llanos in El Tanque, and concluding in Santiago del Teide’s main square.
Promoted by Juan Antonio Jorge Peraza and supported by the Tenerife Rural Foundation, this historical reenactment aims to bring the community together, showcasing characters from the 20th century, including shepherds and rural women. Jorge recalled how the initiative started when he observed night-time activity during a stay in his car 20 years ago while working for the El Tanque town hall and was inspired to preserve local culture.
Participants will dress in period attire and interact in various roles, including those of traditional traders. A highlight will be the arrival of the Folkloric Dance Workshop from Santiago del Teide, which has involved members aged eight to over 75 since its inception in 2017.
Mary Carmen Luis, 79, will participate with her trading basket filled with items such as pepper and saffron, recalling her own experiences of trading in the past. Having lived in Santiago del Teide for 40 years, she reminisced about making long journeys to trade goods, noting that the route has shortened over the years.
The event reflects a vibrant community spirit, with various performances and stalls planned to engage both locals and tourists. The mayor of Santiago del Teide, Emilio Navarro, will attend, following his participation in a local MasterChef event, which aims to fundraise for community initiatives.
As attendees enjoy traditional foods under a giant tent, the spirit of collaboration and nostalgia will continue to thrive, linking the past with the present.
