La Orotava Honors César Hernández Martínez as 'Honorary Villero' for Cultural Legacy
The La Orotava City Council has posthumously named César Hernández Martínez an "Honorary Villero" in recognition of his foundational role in shaping the town's cultural traditions and the modern structure of the Romería of San Isidro.
The La Orotava City Council recently named the late César Hernández Martínez an "Honorary Villero," a posthumous honor that highlights the importance of protecting the Canary Islands' intangible heritage. This recognition comes as the town prepares for the 89th Romería of San Isidro Labrador and Santa María de la Cabeza, an event that also marks the 90th anniversary of the festival’s modern structure—a model that has become the standard for celebrations across Tenerife.
Hernández Martínez, a dentist from La Laguna who moved to La Orotava in 1932, played a vital role in professionalizing local traditions. After becoming president of the Liceo de Taoro Cultural Society in 1935, he worked with the City Council to formalize the pilgrimage. He introduced organizational standards, such as strict dress codes and guidelines for decorating carts, that remain in place today. By focusing on quality and order, he helped transform a simple religious procession into a major cultural landmark, ensuring the Liceo de Taoro remained the event's primary organizer for the next nine decades.
His influence extended far beyond the pilgrimage. A dedicated humanist, Hernández Martínez founded the local Red Cross assembly in 1938 and established the "Procession of Silence" in 1953, which brought thousands of women into the town’s religious life. He was also a significant patron of the arts, supporting the training of sculptor Ezequiel de León Domínguez, founding the Cine Orotava, and promoting a cultural partnership with the town of Puenteareas, Spain, based on their shared tradition of creating flower carpets.
The award, accepted by his son, César Hernández García, serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the authenticity of local folklore—a cause Hernández Martínez championed throughout his life. Whether through his involvement with the Music Board or his work with the rondalla group Los Kiawels, he was a driving force in the community. This tribute honors his lifelong commitment to civic life, which shaped the culture of La Orotava from his arrival in 1932 until his death in 1999. The upcoming pilgrimage on June 14 will provide a fitting backdrop to celebrate his lasting legacy.