Taganana Residents Decry Neglect and Accessibility Issues at Santa Cruz Cemetery
Residents of Santa Cruz de Tenerife are demanding comprehensive renovations at the Taganana cemetery, citing structural decay, accessibility barriers, and a lack of burial space that contradict official maintenance assessments.
The management of funeral spaces in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is once again a subject of heated debate. The La Voz del Valle neighborhood association has publicly criticized the state of the Taganana cemetery, claiming the site is neglected and suffering from structural issues that fall far short of basic maintenance standards.
There is a clear divide between official reports and the reality described by locals. While a July 2024 assessment by the public company Gesplan deemed the facilities acceptable, residents point to visible damage, including partially collapsed roofs in burial areas. Gladis de León, head of the Anaga District Council, has downplayed these concerns, stating that recent repairs were minor and did not disturb any human remains.
Carlos Tarife, head of General Services, explained that the deterioration in the "Right Courtyard" was identified in May 2025, prompting an order for urgent repairs from the concessionary company, Cetensa. The city council noted that the process was complicated by the need to identify the owners of telecommunications antennas installed on the roof before work could begin. Officials now confirm that final repairs are underway.
Local residents remain unconvinced, arguing that the city’s efforts—such as sealing areas with cement slabs—are merely temporary fixes that cannot withstand the area’s harsh weather. Beyond the structural decay, there is growing anxiety over the cemetery’s limited space, as it is nearing full capacity.
The city’s own General Services report confirms another major complaint: the cemetery is not accessible to everyone. The report admits there are no paths for people with reduced mobility, no designated parking, and inadequate restroom facilities. Visitors have noted that the volcanic gravel (picón) ground makes it nearly impossible to navigate the site with wheelchairs or crutches.
The issue has now reached the City Council, with opposition councilman Florentino Guzmán Plasencia arguing that maintaining cemeteries is a matter of respect for the community. The situation highlights a growing tension between official technical assessments and the public’s demand for better care, with many calling for a comprehensive renovation rather than short-term repairs.