Tacoronte Unveils Religious Tourism Strategy at FITUR 2026

Tacoronte's Tourism Department unveiled its strategy for the year at FITUR 2026 on Thursday. The goal is to highlight the city's unique attractions, especially its strong ties to religious heritage and culture. Mayor Sandra Izquierdo and Tourism Councillor Candelaria Regalado attended the press event, which took place at the stand of the Canary Islands' Association of Tourist Municipalities (AMTC).

After several years away, Tacoronte returned to the International Tourism Fair in Madrid. It used this opportunity to promote itself as an alternative to the usual sun-and-beach holidays in the Canary Islands. The city emphasized its strong links to agriculture, nature, and its many cultural and religious sites and artworks, most of which are in its historic center.

The biggest new feature for 2026 is a guided sacred route called "Tacoronte de mi alma" (Tacoronte of my soul). This tour helps both locals and visitors explore three key aspects of the city's religious life in detail:

1. Architecture: Learn about the history of its temples, their building styles, and how they've changed over the years.
2. Sacred Art: Get detailed information about the Most Holy Christ of Tacoronte and the patron saint, Saint Catherine, among other important artworks.
3. Religious Devotion and Traditions: Discover the city's intangible heritage through its religious fervor and traditions. Guided by Dr. Antonio Marrero, an expert in Art History, visitors can access new videos and audio in five languages (Spanish, English, German, French, and Italian) through 18 digital information panels placed at various sites.

Since April 2025, Tacoronte has been part of the World Religious Tourism Network, a global platform that promotes cultural and spiritual heritage. This network offers a unique and appealing platform to showcase and boost Tacoronte's rich religious and historical heritage, informing tourists about what makes the city special compared to other towns in the Canary Islands.

At the IFEMA meeting (in pavilion 9), local leaders also highlighted many other important places in Tacoronte. These include the Agua García Forest, one of the most significant laurel forests remaining in the Canary Islands, located within the Las Lagunetas Protected Landscape. This mountain area provides a unique experience, featuring the island's first accessible trail and a heritage center with tourist information and promotional materials. Other must-see spots in this northern municipality include the beautiful coast, with Arena de Mesa del Mar beach and the El Pris fishing pier; the trail dedicated to surrealist painter Óscar Domínguez; and the historic triangle formed by Santa Catalina, El Calvario, and the Sanctuary of Christ.

Gastronomy is a highlight of Tacoronte's offerings, with star products like Tacoronte nougat, local wine, Agua García gofio, El Pris fish, and Guayonje onion. Councillor Regalado also spoke about the 45-year history of Tacoronte's Farmers' Market, which has long supported the local agricultural sector. She also mentioned the many wineries and restaurants, and the numerous awards given to D.O. Tacoronte Acentejo wines, known for their exceptional quality thanks to the fertile land and ideal climate.

Mayor Izquierdo emphasizes that the city's greatest asset is its people and their local talent, highlighting the professionalism and dedication of those working in agriculture, livestock, fishing, and commerce. She described them as agents of change, driving a vibrant, welcoming city that is always evolving.

Tacoronte keeps its tourism website, www.tacoronte.travel, updated with all relevant information. On the website, visitors can find details about guided tours and explore many other places, including Hamilton Gardens Park, the La Alhóndiga building, and La Casona in the Santa Catalina neighborhood.