The Main Parish of Our Lady of the Conception of La Orotava will introduce, beginning in February, a modest symbolic fee of 2 euros per individual for entry into the church. This initiative primarily aims to ensure the proper maintenance and conservation of the building and its cultural treasures.
Entry will remain free for residents of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, who are also part of the Nivariense Diocese (La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and Tenerife) as well as for children under 6 years of age and the Official Tourist Guides of the Canary Islands who possess the necessary accreditation.
Opening hours will be Tuesday to Friday, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.. Access will be complimentary during the evenings throughout the week (from 6:30 p.m.) and on weekends, providing greater flexibility for visitors.
During religious celebrations, tourist visits will not be permitted to respect religious observances.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to safeguard the invaluable historical and cultural heritage of La Orotava, while attempting to manage the increasing volume of visitors and the necessity to maintain the area in excellent condition. Such conservation support measures are not new or unique. In recent years, several public institutions in the Canary Islands have enacted similar policies to ensure the safeguarding of our most cherished resources.
A prime example of this is the introduction of fees in the Masca region by the Cabildo of Tenerife, where a charge has been implemented for accessing certain high-traffic tourist locations, aimed at better regulating visitor flows and protecting the natural surroundings.
The Mother Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción, like other heritage sites of significant historical and cultural importance across our Islands, requires measures that facilitate its long-term preservation and upkeep. The revenues generated from this small fee will be directed exclusively towards the restoration and maintenance of the building and its cultural properties, guaranteeing that this heritage remains accessible for generations to come.
This symbolic fee serves not only a practical function but also an educational one. This initiative aims to increase awareness among visitors regarding the significance of preserving the cultural heritage of the Canary Islands, which is deserving of full acknowledgment.
The cooperation of the community, both residents and tourists, will be pivotal to ensuring that this monument continues to represent a symbol of collective history and heritage.
Moreover, with a clear intent to enhance and elevate the quality of visits offered, we are collaborating closely with the APIT (Professional Association of Tourist Guides of Tenerife) to develop joint action plans with tourism professionals in order to forge productive relationships that enhance the utilisation of and best practices within one of the most revered and frequented religious sites in the Canary Islands.
The shared endeavour, understanding, and support of all visitors and tourism professionals will be essential in promoting this measure and in fostering a respectful and enriching experience for everyone.
