La Laguna Launches Restoration Project for Iconic Bruno Giorgi Statue

Preserving public sculptures is a constant challenge, as time and environmental wear take their toll. To address this, the San Cristóbal de La Laguna City Council has partnered with the University of La Laguna to restore the city’s iconic 1960 statue of Bruno Giorgi. This collaboration aims to stop the statue’s deterioration and reinforce its role as a key symbol of the city’s identity.

The restoration project, backed by a municipal budget of 84,793.57 euros, follows a year and a half of careful study. While 2024 chemical analyses confirmed that the statue’s internal metal structure is stable, the surface requires urgent attention. Experts will work to stabilize the statue’s patina, repair damage accumulated over 60 years of exposure to the elements, and restore its granite base. The university’s Padre Anchieta Cultural Chair and its art analysis service (SADOA) will oversee the technical work, with the university contributing an additional 6,875 euros to help share the scientific findings with the public.

Because the statue honors a historical figure whose influence spans from the founding of Brazilian cities to his work as a humanist and linguist, this project goes beyond simple repairs. Local officials have confirmed that the agreement includes follow-up scientific monitoring in 2027 and 2028 to ensure the long-term effectiveness of the restoration.

The project coincides with the 429th anniversary of the passing of Saint Joseph of Anchieta. To mark the occasion, the Casa Anchieta—which will soon house an interpretation center dedicated to the saint—will host a series of educational events from June 16 to 19. Supported by official city chronicler Eliseo Izquierdo, these activities highlight the statue’s importance as a public asset and a gift from the Brazilian government that remains a vital part of La Laguna’s history.