Cabildo of Tenerife Celebrates 300 Years of Montevideo’s Foundation with Uruguay
The Cabildo of Tenerife has reaffirmed its cultural ties with Uruguay as part of the celebrations marking the 300th anniversary of Montevideo’s founding. President Rosa Dávila, along with Employment, Education and Youth Councillor Efraín Medina and International Relations Director Pedro González, met with Uruguay’s Consul General in the Canary Islands, Silvana Lorena Balaguer Mira, and Honorary Consul in Tenerife, Celia Ondoño.
The meeting aimed to strengthen institutional collaboration and highlight the deep social and cultural connections between Tenerife and Uruguay that have lasted for three centuries. Dávila emphasised the importance of keeping their shared history alive and the role Canary Island emigrants played in shaping Uruguayan identity. “Tenerife and Uruguay share a history of effort and hope built by thousands of Canary families who crossed the Atlantic and contributed significantly to the development of Montevideo and the entire country. This anniversary is a chance to reinforce those links and continue strengthening our relationship,” she said.
Efraín Medina reflected on the emotional significance of the commemoration, recalling fond memories of interactions with the Islas Canarias Society in Montevideo during his previous role as Director General of International Relations. “Building ties between sister countries is one of the greatest things that can happen. On this anniversary, the Cabildo of Tenerife will continue to build bridges and share history and future,” he stated.
The meeting also served as a reminder of the lasting impact of Canary Island emigration on Uruguay. Montevideo was officially founded in November 1726 when the first families from the Canary Islands arrived aboard the ship Nuestra Señora de la Encina. These 96 pioneers became the city’s founders, leaving an imprint that remains in Uruguayan identity today. The term “Canario” is still affectionately used to refer to residents of Canelones and rural areas, recognising the significant agricultural, social, and cultural contributions of the emigrants.
To honour this relationship, Tenerife will celebrate Uruguay during the VIII Tricontinental Crafts Fair, taking place at the Tenerife Fairgrounds from 24 October to 2 November 2026. While Mexico will be the featured country this year, the Cabildo plans to dedicate a special space to showcase Uruguayan culture and crafts, further cementing the historical bonds between both nations.
