The Governing Council of the Cabildo of Tenerife yesterday sanctioned the contract for the management of the renovation works at the Plaza de la Patrona in Candelaria, amounting to over 488,000 euros, to the architecture firm Eustaquio Martínez. Work is anticipated to commence before the year’s end, likely in the latter part of December, although the precise start date will depend on the deliberations of the Monitoring Commission. The project has a timeline of 36 months and encompasses an investment of 16.2 million euros.
The renovations will cover an estimated area of 20,000 square meters and will include enhancements to the promenade and the vicinity of Plaza de la Patrona. “This is a crucial and iconic project for both Tenerife and Candelaria, as the Basilica, which is classified as an Asset of Cultural Interest, is a necessary visit and a place of devotion and pilgrimage for numerous locals who honour the Virgin of Candelaria,” stated the president of the Cabildo, Rosa Dávila. She emphasised that this initiative will serve as “a standard for the revitalisation of public spaces on the Island and will enhance the cultural and tourist appeal of Candelaria.”
THE SOURCE AND THE GUANCHES
The renovations, which will maintain key features such as the pilgrims’ fountain and the Guanche sculpture group, will unfold in three stages: the first will focus on the promenade, covering 3,431 square meters; the second will concentrate on the Plaza de la Patrona, which is 13,640 square meters, while the third phase will attend to the Plaza de los Artesanos, spanning 2,354 square meters. The project also plans improvements to the hydraulic pipelines and sanitation systems in the area. Among various enhancements, the construction of a ramp structure in the Plaza de la Patrona is included, which will accommodate a sacred museum, a multifunctional room, and a tourist office as its primary functions. The total constructed area will amount to 1,073 square meters.
The expansive plaza will be refurbished, as will the San Blas promenade and Cueva de los Camellos. Moreover, Antón Guanche street will be pedestrianised, transforming it into an open linear space at its upper end, as per the plans laid out by the island institution.
This initiative has been made feasible through the collaborative efforts of the Cabildo of Tenerife, the Candelaria City Council, and the Insular Water Council.
