The City Council of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, through the Public Services department, announces the completion of the restoration of the stunning fountain in the historic Weyler Square, along with the four flowerpots surrounding it. This restoration project, led by the General Foundation of the University of La Laguna, involved an investment of 55,500.25 euros. The restoration included the installation of plumbing, electricity, lighting, and the enhancement of the watertightness of the neoclassical marble vessel dating back to 1899. This fountain is declared an Asset of Cultural Interest and is part of the Historic Complex of Barrio de Los Hoteles-Pino de Oro.
During the unveiling of the newly restored fountain, Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez praised the dedication and hard work of the team, comprising conservators, restorers, architects, chemists, geologists, and biologists. He emphasised the importance of restoring this central fountain to elevate its significance, as it stands out as one of the city’s most essential features, contributing to the preservation of our historical and cultural heritage.
Carlos Tarife, the Councillor for Public Services, detailed that, “alongside the restoration of the ornamental fountain, all public lighting fixtures were painted, and the 16 existing lights were replaced with energy-efficient LED technology. This upgrade resulted in a 60% energy saving, boosting the square’s installed power from 1600 W to 640 W.”
“We have also enhanced the green spaces within the square and replaced the seasonal flowers, with an investment of 5,000 euros,” added the city councillor.
Antonio J. Sánchez Fernández, a conservator-restorer, was also present at the event. Alongside architect José Yeray Santos Santana, IMESAPI, SA, and Cúrcuma, they were responsible for the fountain’s rehabilitation work.
Explaining the restoration process, Antonio J. Sánchez highlighted, “The primary damages on the fountain, concerning its function, use, and environmental impact, have all been addressed.”
“The fountain underwent a chemical cleaning to eliminate surface deposits, resolving leaks, cracks, and fractures from previous repairs. The basin was waterproofed, water-resistant materials were applied, filters and facilities were modernised,” Sánchez elaborated.
The City Council of Santa Cruz emphasises that this fountain restoration at Weyler Square is part of a comprehensive maintenance and conservation plan that will be annually reviewed to prevent damages caused by water exposure, microorganisms, and environmental wear on this iconic city-centre sculpture.
