New Historical Cannon Unveiled at San Cristóbal Castle Museum
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, 3 July – The Interpretation Centre at San Cristóbal Castle has welcomed a new historic cannon discovered in April during renovations at the nearby Cabildo de Tenerife building. Managed by the Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife, this cannon enhances the museum’s exhibition on the island’s defensive history.
The large cannon is linked to the former defensive network protecting Santa Cruz and has been integrated into the museum’s displays following initial recovery and study by museum technicians. Lope Afonso, Vice President of the Cabildo, stated that its discovery enriches understanding of the fortifications that have safeguarded one of the Atlantic’s key strategic locations for centuries.
José Carlos Acha, the island’s Culture, Museums, and Sports Councillor, urged locals to visit the museum and reconnect with the rich history of Santa Cruz and the Canary Islands through its artifacts. He emphasised the importance of San Cristóbal Castle as a bridge between past and present.
Beyond its military significance, this cannon adds cultural and symbolic depth to the city’s heritage, as noted by museum technician Jesús Duque Arimany in his opinion piece. Acha highlighted that these cannons not only served as coastal defenses but also played a role in everyday life, signalling celebrations and important events with their blasts.
Located beneath Plaza de España, the centre also showcases the remains of the old castle wall, detailing its defensive evolution from construction around 1575 to its demolition in 1928. The new cannon enhances the historical narrative alongside other significant pieces, including ‘El Tigre’, known for its role in defending Santa Cruz during the British attack in 1797.
The Interpretation Centre opens to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 to 18:00, with free entry.
