Tenerife Invests Over €1M in Historic San Juan Bautista Church Restoration

The Tenerife Island Council and the Diocese of Tenerife are investing over one million euros in the restoration of the San Juan Bautista church in San Juan de la Rambla. The Council is contributing more than 900,000 euros, with the Diocese adding over 230,000 euros.

This work will involve restoring the roofs and wooden coffered ceilings, as well as strengthening the historic building's structure. Electricity and security systems will also be upgraded, and damaged woodwork and stone features will be repaired. According to the Council, all these improvements will be made while keeping the church's original layout intact.

The project, backed by the Diocese of Tenerife and the San Juan de la Rambla City Council, will focus on preserving, strengthening, and renovating the property. This will be done while respecting its architectural, historical, and environmental importance, as it's part of a designated Historic Complex, a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC). They explained that this church is one of the most important historical sites in the area.

Isabel de Esteban, the island's director for Territorial Planning, Landscape, and Historical Heritage, recently met with local residents. She was joined by the restoration team and representatives from the Diocese. De Esteban stressed how important this work is for the church's long-term survival.

"This is a necessary and well-planned project," said the island director. "It will make sure the building is structurally sound and its historical value is protected, always with minimal changes and respect for its original character."

De Esteban explained that "the technical report confirms that the planned work is appropriate for preserving this historic complex. Our goal is to balance preserving its heritage with allowing people to use and enjoy it, making sure this church remains a vibrant part of San Juan de la Rambla's history and townscape," she concluded.

The church was built in stages, starting with the San Juan hermitage in the 16th century, thanks to Martín Rodríguez, a Portuguese settler in San Juan de la Rambla. It was gradually transformed, and a century later, in the 17th century, the second section, called the Candelaria nave, was added. However, a severe storm in 1722 destroyed almost all the improvements made up to that point. In the 19th century, various chapels were added, giving it its current form. Today, the church has two main sections (naves) and features two stone arches on its front.