Funding Secured for New Cultural Park in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Santa Cruz de Tenerife has taken a significant step forward in the development of the Viera y Clavijo Cultural Park, with the local council and the Cabildo of Tenerife agreeing to fund the second phase of the project, which will see the construction of the Pérez Minik Auditorium.
The announcement was made during a visit to the main building, where work is already underway to establish the CaixaForum Tenerife, one of only seven such centres in Spain.
Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez, alongside Cabildo President Rosa Dávila, Councillor for Works and Infrastructure Javier Rivero, and architect Fernando Menis, inspected the progress on the project, aimed at transforming the historic Colegio de La Asunción into a vibrant cultural venue.
The renovation seeks to restore one of the city’s most iconic heritage buildings while adapting it for new cultural, educational, and family uses. The updated designs will also create larger exhibition spaces and meet technical demands from the “la Caixa” Foundation, which is closely collaborating on the project.
Bermúdez expressed his appreciation to Dávila for the Cabildo’s financial support, stating that the new auditorium is essential for establishing a major cultural centre in Santa Cruz, which currently lacks such a facility.
He noted the expansion of the original project will enhance exhibition capabilities within the Cultural Park, providing more room for cultural activities.
Bermúdez described the project as one of the most exciting developments for the city, expected to complement existing cultural landmarks like the TEA and Teatro Guimerá, while also becoming a cultural hub for the Canary Islands.
He highlighted that the CaixaForum would position Santa Cruz alongside cultural networks in cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, enabling the island to host major exhibitions and educational activities, particularly aimed at children and families.
Dávila confirmed the Cabildo’s commitment to the project, which she said would enrich the cultural landscape of both Santa Cruz and Tenerife by restoring the city’s treasured heritage.
She commended the collaborative efforts behind the rehabilitation, which is advancing steadily.
Architect Fernando Menis emphasised the project’s architectural uniqueness and its significant heritage value, aspiring for it to thrive as a centre of education and activity for families.
Menis noted the discovery of historical elements like an old cistern during restoration, all while ensuring that various historical layers of the building are respected and preserved.
He added that the most complex phases of construction are complete, with the focus now shifting to finishing touches. Given that the building had remained abandoned for over three decades, its revival represents a collective effort from all involved.
The project, awarded to Menis in 2020, seeks a cohesive architectural and functional integration of the main building, the future Pérez Minik Auditorium, and surrounding areas, ensuring that this important cultural and heritage regeneration initiative for Santa Cruz de Tenerife is realised.
