La Laguna is marking its long connection with the Franciscan order with a programme of religious and cultural events running up to 4 October, the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi.
The anniversary provides an opportunity to look back at the role the Franciscans have played in the city’s history, as well as the influence that tradition continues to have on La Laguna today.
A Franciscan connection dating back centuries
The Franciscan presence in La Laguna goes back to the early history of the city.
An early convent was established on the site where the Sanctuary of the Most Holy Christ now stands. The story is also linked to the Poor Clares, who moved to the Monastery of Santa Clara in 1577, having initially been based at the Franciscan convent.
Acting Tourism Councillor Fran Hernández said the anniversary offers a chance to look more closely at this relationship and discover how Franciscan heritage has shaped the city.
Talks, music and guided tours
The programme gets underway on Wednesday 30 September at 19:00 with a talk by Francisco Ignacio Hernández Rivero, titled Uncovering a Spiritual Treasure: the Testament of St. Francis of Assisi.
On Thursday, art historian Juan Alejandro Lorenzo Lima will discuss The Monastery of Santa Clara as a Heritage Asset: Challenges and Perspectives.
Music then takes centre stage on Friday 2 October, with a charity concert featuring Camerata Lacunensis and the University Choir.
One of the more interesting events takes place on Saturday 3 October, with a free guided tour titled Franciscan Places of La Laguna.
The tour starts at 10:00 from the Tower of Our Lady of Conception and will explore the city through its Franciscan history, looking at familiar places from a slightly different perspective.
Free registration is required for the guided tour.
The celebrations continue on Sunday
Saturday afternoon will include solemn vespers, followed by a Eucharist and the celebration of the Feast of St. Francis at 18:00.
The main religious celebration takes place on Sunday 4 October, with a Eucharist led by Eloy Alberto Santiago, Bishop of the Nivariense Diocese.
This will be followed by a procession from Santa Clara to the Sanctuary of the Most Holy Christ.
For La Laguna, the programme is intended to connect its religious heritage with the city people know today, while giving both residents and visitors an opportunity to discover more about the stories behind its historic streets and buildings.