La Orotava will welcome experts from across Spain this autumn as it hosts the first National Congress on Traditional Costume, a new event dedicated to preserving and promoting Spain’s rich textile heritage.
Organised by the Cabildo de Tenerife, the congress will take place on 2 and 3 October at the Centro de la Cultura, bringing together specialists to discuss the history, craftsmanship and cultural importance of traditional dress.
Specialists from Across Spain
The two-day event will feature 11 speakers from different regions of the country, who will examine traditional costume from a variety of perspectives, including:
- History
- Anthropology
- Ethnography
- Traditional craftsmanship
- Modern approaches to conservation
The aim is to encourage research while helping to safeguard this important part of Spain’s cultural heritage for future generations.
Talks, Exhibitions and Public Events
The congress will be supported by a wider programme of activities in the weeks leading up to the event.
These will include lectures, round-table discussions, exhibitions and public meetings, giving both specialists and visitors the opportunity to learn more about traditional clothing and its role in regional identity.
Why La Orotava?
La Orotava was chosen as the venue because of its long-standing commitment to protecting and promoting Tenerife’s cultural heritage.
The town has earned a reputation for preserving local traditions and regularly hosts events that celebrate Canarian history, making it a fitting location for the inaugural national congress.
Raising the Profile of Traditional Costume
The Cabildo hopes the congress will become a regular national forum where researchers, artisans and heritage professionals can exchange ideas and share new discoveries.
As well as celebrating traditional clothing, the event aims to encourage greater understanding of the skills, history and craftsmanship behind each garment.
Preserving Tenerife’s Cultural Heritage
Island President Rosa Dávila said the congress reinforces Tenerife’s commitment to protecting its cultural heritage and creating opportunities to share knowledge with experts from across Spain.
By hosting the country’s first event of its kind, Tenerife is further establishing itself as a leading centre for the study, conservation and promotion of traditional costume and textile heritage.