Living near La Laguna allows those who own Abama’s best luxury properties in Tenerife access to fascinating traditions. From floral carpets to maritime processions, religion is at the root of many of these festivities, which, for locals and visitors alike, transcend the sacred to offer an opportunity for fun, entertainment and cultural celebration. Among them are the Fiestas del Santísimo Cristo de La Laguna, which every September transform this World Heritage City into a space of devotion and joy.
Less than an hour's drive from Abama Resort, these festivities are held in honor of one of the most venerated icons in the archipelago: the Holy Christ of La Laguna, kept in the sanctuary of San Miguel de las Victorias (Real Santuario del Santísimo Cristo de La Laguna). Believed to be the oldest religious icon on the islands, it is a Flemish carving that arrived in 1520 from the Netherlands (lthough there are interesting alternative origin stories) and is deeply linked to the historical and spiritual development of Tenerife.
For centuries, the figure has been a beacon of faith for the people of La Laguna, but also for others all over the island who, generation after generation, have come to appeal to it in moments of difficulty and gratitude.
Every September 9th, the image of the Holy Christ is brought down from the main altar for a traditional ritual and is placed on its processional throne, crowned by a cross embossed in silver. From there, it begins a voyage to the Cathedral of La Laguna, where it remains for five days. On September 14th, the Great Day of Christ, the image returns to its sanctuary, accompanied by a procession in which the major civil, religious and military leaders of the Canary Islands participate. Even the Canary Islands army forms part of the procession, fulfilling a promise made centuries ago. At nightfall, after mass, the icon is guided through the streets of the historic center of town in a spectacular night procession, stopping at the Santa Clara and Santa Catalina convents and enveloped in an atmosphere of meditation that ends with the spectacular “Fires of Christ”, one of the most impressive pyrotechnic displays on the island all year. A week later, on September 21st, they celebrate the Octava, in which the icon is once again paraded through the streets, this time through the square that bears its name, before being raised again to its customary place in the temple.
Though the heart of the celebration is concentrated around September 14th, which is a holiday in the municipality, the City Council of La Laguna programs activities throughout the month. These include contemporary music concerts, traditional activities, fireworks, and events replete with symbolism.
La Laguna, a must on your list of what to see in Tenerife
If you’ve bought a home at Abama and still haven’t visited La Laguna, this festival will give you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditions of Tenerife. To visit La Laguna is to discover a balance between history and modernity, the sacred and the popular. And beyond this event, the town of San Cristobal de La Laguna is a must in itself. Strolling through its streets is like traveling back in time: its colonial buildings, centuries-old convents and landscaped courtyards are living proof that this was the first city founded without walls during the Renaissance and an urban model for many cities in the New World. Its university life, old bookstores, hidden cafes and cultural scene help La Laguna retain a serene but intense energy, perfect for an excursion of true cultural interest.
Walking the cobblestone streets of La Laguna and feeling the weight of its history is, for many Abama owners, a way of enriching their living experience on the island. It’s no coincidence that many of our owners first discovered Tenerife as visitors and then decided to make Abama a permanent part of their lives. Coming to Abama means connecting with the cultural heart of the island and experiencing events others travel thousands of miles to see. Schedule your September getaway now and you‘ll not only enjoy the best luxury properties in Tenerife, but also part of the rich Canary Islands culture.
Photo: City Hall of La Laguna
