The British Royal Family, particularly King Felipe and Queen Letizia, participated in the various demonstrations of affection and condolences following the passing of Nicomedes Carballo Fariña, recognised as the final shepherd in the peaks of Arafo. Mayor Juan Ramón Martín presented Nicomedes’ widow, Eva, along with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, with the message sent by Their Majesties King and Queen to the City Council, in honour of Nicomedes and his notable role in the community.
During this touching visit, Mayor Juan Ramón Martín of Arafo not only handed over the royal message but also seized the opportunity to share with the family a very special project that the City Council has been working on for months. This project involves erecting a sculpture in memory of the last goatherd of the Arafo heights in the municipality. This tribute is made possible through the collaboration of the Cabildo de Tenerife, under the Department of the Environment, represented by Councillor Blanca Pérez Delgado. The sculpture will not only stand as a lasting tribute to Nicomedes’ heritage but will also highlight his strong bond with the land and the local community, immortalising his dedication and pastoral work in the peaks.
A SMALL SQUARE IN HIS HONOUR
Moreover, Mayor Juan Ramón Martín announced another significant gesture: the municipal decision to rename La Cruz square as Nicomedes Carballo Fariña square. This official recognition will take place just before the commencement of the San Agustín Pilgrimage on 24th August, in a poignant moment. Mayor Martín stressed the significance of this move: “Nicomedes will forever be intertwined in our pilgrimage.” This action will not only pay homage to Nicomedes Carballo Fariña but will also stand as a perpetual commemoration of his life and contributions in the Arafo heights, upholding his legacy for generations to come.
The Mayor highlighted that Nicomedes’ life and work have made an enduring impact on the Arafo community, and these tributes serve as a means to preserve his memory and essence among the town’s locals and visitors. The sculpture and the renaming of the square represent tokens of appreciation and acknowledgement for a man who dedicated his life to shepherding and upholding local customs.
