Controversy Erupts Over Protest at Roque Nublo
A heated debate has emerged on social media following the Cabildo’s announcement to remove a banner reading “Canary Islands For Sale” affixed to the iconic Roque Nublo rock formation. The local government stated that using natural spaces for climbing activities should not involve actions they deem abusive and called for respect for these environments.
Opinions are sharply divided online. Many support the Cabildo’s decision, labelling the protest as “vandalism” and an “environmental crime.” Some commenters argue that the site is sacred and has been desecrated by such actions.
Conversely, numerous voices defend the symbolic protest, suggesting that placing the banner on the established climbing anchors does not constitute an environmental violation. Supporters argue it is a form of “defending the territory.” They point out that significant environmental damage is often caused by “tourists trampling the dunes at Maspalomas” or the use of natural parks for filming, citing the recent filming of the series “The Witcher” at Roque Nublo as an example.
The Cabildo acknowledged the legitimacy of the protest but maintains that using a natural monument for such actions is incompatible with its conservation.
Once again, the discussion over environmental conservation, land use, and tourism pressure has been reignited.