In Santa Cruz, the Plaza of the Canarian Militias was opened in honor of the city's defenders.

A new square has appeared in the city of Santa Cruz! The mayor, José Manuel Bermúdez, and the commander of the Canary Islands, Lieutenant General Julio Salom, unveiled the plaque with the name – Canary Islands Militias Square. It is located between 25 de Julio Avenue and Méndez Núñez Street.

The mayor explained that the name was proposed by various organizations to honor all the residents of Santa Cruz and the Canary Islands who once defended the city and the island, regardless of their origin or profession.

The opening was attended by local deputies, the mayor of Granadilla, Domingo Regalado, representatives of the municipalities of La Orotava, Güímar, La Laguna, and Garachico, as well as military and civilian personnel. According to Bermúdez, special guests were members of the Fourth Company of the Militia from Taganana, who annually recreate the historical event – the arrival with water carriers. There were also reenactors of the feat of July 25, 1797.

The mayor emphasized that the name of the square evokes the past, inspires gratitude, and pride. He recalled that the Canary Islands Militias originated as self-defense units organized by local residents due to the lack of a regular army. Each district had its own militia company, such as the Taganana Militia, recruited from men from the valley and the coastal village.

Bermúdez emphasized that their role, along with the militias of La Laguna, Güímar, La Orotava, and Santa Cruz, was crucial in repelling the British attack on July 25, 1797, known as the Feat of July 25. He added that the new square is dedicated to these people. The mayor thanked the commander of the Canary Islands, Lieutenant General Julio Salom, for his presence as a representative of the militias who, together with the military, repelled the attack by Admiral Nelson.

Lieutenant General Julio Salom noted that the name of the square honors those who, with their courage, created one of the most glorious pages in history – the defense of Santa Cruz on July 25, 1797. He added that the Canary Islands have always been an important strategic point, the key to the Atlantic, and an important center on the route between Europe, Africa, and America.

The Lieutenant General emphasized that the port of Santa Cruz has always needed a strong military presence due to numerous attacks. He emphasized that the victory over Nelson was made possible by the cooperation between the military and civilians, in particular, the militias of the Canary Islands.

The mayor emphasized that the new Canary Islands Militias Square was made possible by the efforts of various city services. Previously, there was a parking lot here, and now there are over 1,000 square meters for recreation with new plants and preserved historical elements, such as lanterns. He expressed hope that this place will become a center for meetings and honoring historical values.

In conclusion, the mayor thanked everyone who contributed to the creation of the square and those who participated in the improvement works. He emphasized that the square is the result of joint efforts aimed at preserving history and creating a worthy meeting place.

In total, 660,147 euros were spent on the construction of the Canary Islands Militias Square. The works were suspended during the Carnival, as promised by the city authorities, and then resumed after its completion.