Santa Cruz de Tenerife Commemorates 229th Anniversary of the 25th July Gesta
Santa Cruz de Tenerife will relive the events of 1797 from 24th to 26th July, celebrating the 229th anniversary of the 25th July Gesta. The city boasts a packed programme that includes historical reenactments, cultural activities, and commemorative events honouring those who defended the capital from the British attack led by Admiral Horatio Nelson.
The festivities kick off on Friday, 24th July, with reenactors gathering at El Cabo Bridge, marking the start of a busy weekend. The city will transform into an outdoor stage, featuring traditional videomapping on the façade of the Museum of Nature and Archaeology, recreating key moments from the defence of Santa Cruz in 1797. Events will continue with historical re-enactments at Barranco de Santos, concluding with the English surrender portrayed at Palacio de Carta.
Saturday, 25th July, coincides with the feast of Saint James and will focus on everyday life in the late 18th century. The traditional historic encampment at Alameda del Duque de Santa Elena will allow locals and visitors to engage in craft workshops, traditional trades demonstrations, historical sword fighting displays, and a themed market, showcasing the life of soldiers and civilians at the time. The day will finish with troop formations and a traditional procession.
On Sunday, 26th July, events will culminate with the ceremonial Act of Capitulation, the awarding of the Medals of Merit, and a tribute to the fallen, bringing a fitting close to this year’s historical commemoration. The event will also see the twinning of the Historical-Cultural Association of the 25th July Gesta 1797 and the Twelve of Her Majesty garrison from Santa Cruz de La Palma.
This year’s notable aspect includes the participation of reenactors from the Fixed Regiment of Puerto Rico, enhancing the international flavour of a celebration that attracts hundreds of participants and thousands of visitors each year.
The Medals of Merit will recognise the San Cristóbal de La Laguna City Council for its historical role during the events of 1797 and Lieutenant General Julio Salom Herrera, head of the Canary Islands Command, for his support in preserving and promoting the military historical heritage of the Canary Islands.
Through this initiative, the Santa Cruz City Council aims to preserve and promote one of the city’s most significant historical episodes, engaging citizens and offering a rich cultural experience.
Traffic Changes for the Gesta Celebrations
Traffic will be redirected around Plaza España and Barranco de Santos during the Gesta celebrations, with road closures and parking restrictions in place from Friday through Saturday. Starting at 3:00 PM on Friday, Ni Fú Ni Fá Street will close, along with parking bans on portions of Avenida Marítima, Charco de La Casona, and Campo Castro, except for authorised vehicles.
On Saturday, parking will also be restricted on the final sections of Barranco de Santos, Fuente Morales, lower Imeldo Serís Street, and Cruz Verde and General Gutiérrez Streets. Local authorities ask residents to observe signs and follow directions from police.
Bus routes 909, 919, and 920 will be altered on Friday and Saturday. The 919 route will change direction towards Barrio de La Salud, while stops at TEA and Fuente Morales will be cancelled, with Aguere as the alternative.
During Saturday, routes 909 and 920 will divert from Avenida San Sebastián to Hacienda roundabout, the Plaza España tunnel, and Avenida Francisco La Roche, with the Cabildo stop cancelled and the maritime station as the alternative.
Santa Cruz Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez emphasises the importance of the Gesta as part of the city’s identity. He invites residents and visitors to engage with the celebrations, which blend history, culture, and tradition, fostering a shared sense of pride.
Festival councillor Javier Caraballero adds that a diverse programme has been prepared to immerse the city in the Gesta, aiming to present this historical episode in an engaging and educational manner.
