Pope Leo XIV Welcomed to San Cristóbal de La Laguna with Traditional Silbo Gomero

Pope Leo XIV’s recent visit to San Cristóbal de La Laguna was far from a typical formal event. As the pontiff traveled through the streets of this UNESCO World Heritage city, his arrival was announced by the Silbo Gomero—an ancient whistled language from La Gomera that is also recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Titled "Two Heritage Sites United," the initiative aimed to share the Pope’s message, "Lift your gaze," through this historic method of communication. Organizers, including whistler Rogelio Botanz, the Silbo Gomero Cultural Association, and local officials, emphasized that this was not a performance, but a celebration of cultural identity. Experts were stationed at key landmarks, such as the Viana Pharmacy and the Royal Economic Society of Friends of the Country of Tenerife, to recreate the chain of communication once used to bridge the rugged terrain of La Gomera.

This symbolic gesture highlighted the significance of the Pope’s first-ever visit to the island by blending Canarian tradition with the official proceedings. The silbo was chosen specifically to mirror its historical role as a way to announce major community events. The enthusiastic response from the public, who followed the procession with great fervor, turned the day into a unique moment where local heritage and institutional history came together.