The Government of the Canary Islands has awarded a direct grant of five hundred thousand euros to the Garachico Town Council to enhance its Historic Complex and Port, which has been designated a Site of Cultural Interest due to its significant historical and cultural importance.
The proposed initiatives, as announced by the Government on Monday, not only ensure the protection of cultural heritage but also foster the social and tourist development of the area, thereby promoting its long-term sustainability.
In this regard, the endeavour addresses a matter of public interest by reinforcing cultural identity, social cohesion, and fostering citizens’ sense of belonging.
The proposal submitted by the Town Council of Garachico is “coherently” integrated within the framework of planned actions outlined in the investment programme, which pertains to both the conservation of this site and the promotion of public awareness regarding collective identity and shared historical heritage.
“This BIC has exceptional historical significance and necessitates intervention, which can only be effectively managed by the local administration, given its experience in the conservation of local heritage and deep understanding of the social and cultural landscape,” stated the Minister of Culture for the Canary Islands Government, Migdalia Machín.
According to her, the nature of the project falls under the exclusive municipal powers concerning the protection, promotion, and management of cultural heritage within their territorial jurisdiction, thus excluding the involvement of other administrations to ensure the efficiency, proximity, and relevance of the required actions.
The objective of the subsidy is to protect, conserve, and promote the cultural heritage of the Historical Complex of the Town and Port of Garachico. This includes the restoration of heritage features, improving accessibility and public spaces, promoting their sustainable use, and ensuring their preservation for future generations.
Specifically, based on the documentation provided, the plan includes repairs to the walls along the maritime avenue, safeguarding the safety and conservation of the landscape, and the installation of urban furnishings in the Historic Complex that are in keeping with the heritage character, enhancing functionality and comfort in public areas.
Additionally, the project involves ornamental lighting for historic buildings to accentuate their heritage and aesthetic appeal, while incorporating energy-efficient solutions and reducing light pollution.
These enhancements are to be completed between 1 January and 31 December of 2025.
