The church of San Bartolomé de Tejina has once again opened its doors to worship following an extensive restoration process. This renovation, as stated by the president of the Cabildo, Rosa Dávila, has been made possible through the collaboration of various institutions, which has been crucial in executing the works and serves as a “demonstration of how our historical heritage should not only be safeguarded but also experienced and celebrated as an integral part of our identity.”
Dávila attended the reopening ceremony of the temple yesterday, accompanied by the insular director of Heritage, Isabel de Esteban; the general director of Heritage of the Government of the Canary Islands, Miguel Ángel Clavijo; the mayor of La Laguna, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez; the diocesan administrator, Antonio Manuel Pérez Morales; the architect, Javier Álvarez; and the contractor of the works, Felipe Méndez. A substantial number of local residents also participated in the event.
The president emphasised the efforts made by the Historical Heritage department of the Cabildo, which, through its subsidy programme, has facilitated the conservation and restoration of this architectural treasure. “Thanks to these subsidies, undertakings have been completed that not only enhance the temple’s aesthetics but also guarantee its preservation for future generations. The Cabildo’s commitment to safeguarding our heritage not only fosters the conservation of our history but also enhances the cultural and touristic appeal of our island.”
The restoration of St. Bartholomew’s Church exemplifies what can be accomplished when institutions and the community work together towards a shared objective. The total expenditure for the works has exceeded 900,000 euros, with 80% coming from the Cabildo and 20% contributed by the Bishopric.
In his remarks, the mayor of La Laguna, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, remarked that “Tejina regains one of its most significant historical structures at the heart of the town. This is wonderful news for the monumental heritage of every municipality and the Island as a whole. We owe gratitude not only to the contributions from the three public administrations, which should serve as a model for institutional collaboration, but also to the residents of Tejina who have financially supported these rehabilitation projects.”
The church, which was constructed in the 16th century, has been designated as an Asset of Cultural Interest, classified as a Monument.
