Every town has people who leave their mark, and in Arona, Buenaventura Ordóñez Vellar is certainly one of them.
The municipality has now added an important collection of previously unseen documents to its historical archive, helping to preserve the legacy of the former mayor and doctor for future generations.
The collection was donated by Dolores Vilalta, who inherited part of Ordóñez Vellar’s personal archive.
A collection with historical value
Among the documents are a number of previously unpublished poems, offering a glimpse into a side of Buenaventura Ordóñez Vellar that few people knew about.
The donation also includes a handwritten note from the then Prince Juan Carlos, adding further historical significance to the archive.
Together, the documents provide a fascinating insight into the personal, professional and literary life of a man who played an important role in Arona’s history.
A key figure in Arona’s development
Originally from Torregrosa in Lleida, Buenaventura Ordóñez Vellar moved to Tenerife, where he worked as a doctor in Los Cristianos for many years.
He also served as Mayor of Arona between 1960 and 1966, a period that saw the municipality begin the transformation that would eventually make it one of Tenerife’s most important tourist destinations.
During his time in office, he promoted social, cultural and healthcare initiatives, and was responsible for several decisions that remain part of the town’s history today.
His work also helped strengthen the early relationship between Los Cristianos and the Swedish community that settled there during the island’s tourism boom.
Preserving Arona’s history
The council says the donation will allow researchers to learn more about Ordóñez Vellar’s life while helping to protect valuable historical documents for future generations.
It’s also another reminder that local history isn’t just found in old buildings or museums. Sometimes it’s tucked away in personal letters, handwritten notes and forgotten family archives.
Thanks to this donation, an important piece of Arona’s story has now become part of the municipality’s shared heritage.