Arrecife Launches Cultural Heritage Route
The Cabildo of Lanzarote and La Graciosa unveiled a new cultural heritage route in Arrecife on Friday. This initiative, led by the Historical Heritage Service and funded by the General Directorate of Culture and Cultural Heritage of the Canary Islands Government, aims to create a walking trail linking some of the most significant historic buildings in the island’s capital.
The launch event took place at the Cabildo’s Plenary Hall and featured remarks from Cabildo President and Heritage Minister Oswaldo Betancort, as well as Migdalia Machín, the Government of the Canary Islands’ Minister for Universities, Science, Innovation, and Culture, and architect Antonio María Zamora, who drafted the project. Arrecife’s Urban Planning Councillor, Maciot Cabrera, also attended.
According to the official press release, the route will span over a kilometre, connecting the recently acquired Casa Fajardo, Los Cabrerones, and El Mercadillo, which are set to house museum centres and complementary spaces.
Oswaldo Betancort emphasised that the project highlights heritage as a link between Arrecife’s past, present, and future. He expressed the goal of integrating historic buildings into the city’s life, making them accessible to the public.
Migdalia Machín remarked that Arrecife’s streets and buildings represent a crucial part of Lanzarote’s identity. This project aims to revive the essence of old Arrecife, connecting key sites tied to collective memory and engaging younger generations with this heritage.
Maciot Cabrera noted that modernising the capital must involve recovering its heritage, stressing the need to protect and enhance spaces vital to the community’s shared history.
Antonio María Zamora detailed that the cultural route’s design considers urban mobility, furniture, vegetation, lighting, pavements, and walls, proposing aesthetic improvements inspired by Lanzarote’s traditional architecture and the artistic vision of César Manrique.
