The Minister of Public Works, Housing and Mobility of the Government of the Canary Islands, together with the General Director of Coasts and Management of the Canary Maritime Space, Antonio Acosta, presented this Monday the Costas Afortunadas project, an initiative that was born with the aim of recovering, making visible and protecting the cultural, historical and natural wealth of the coastal centers of the Archipelago.
During the event, in which the mayor of Telde, Juan Antonio Peña, was also present, all agreed on the urgency of revaluing these spaces, not only as an essential part of the Canarian landscape, but also as living witnesses of its collective identity.
In this line, Pablo Rodríguez, has insisted that “when we talk about the coast and coastal centers, we are talking about a fundamental part of our identity, of our way of life that has lasted for centuries. Tufia, the first place to host this initiative, on May 24 at 11:00 a.m., is one of the many examples that demonstrate how our people have always lived in close relationship with the coast and the sea. With this initiative we want to value not only these spaces, but also the history that surrounds them, which makes us unique and different. Our coast is much more than a landscape; it is the living memory of our culture, of our roots and it is, without a doubt, what makes us Canarian. This project aims to highlight that essence and offer recognition to the historical and cultural importance of our coastal centers.
“'Costas Afortunadas' is not only a cultural or environmental project, it is a declaration of principles about the relevance of these coastal centers as guardians of the memory and Canarian identity. This initiative decisively promotes the work we do from the Ministry, and values the joint work of Puertos Canarios and the General Directorate of Coasts, two organizations committed to the protection of our environment, the coastline and our traditions. It is an effort to preserve and promote the culture that defines us as a people, and a reminder of the need to care for and value what we are,” Rodríguez pointed out.
For his part, the General Director of Coasts and Management of the Canary Maritime Space has highlighted that “protecting our coasts is protecting our history, our environment and our way of life. The Canarian coast is not only a natural space of enormous value, but also a place full of collective memory. Initiatives such as 'Costas Afortunadas' help us look towards the future without losing sight of everything that has brought us here.”
The mayor of Telde, Juan Antonio Peña, has valued the initiative, highlighting that “it is a pride that Tufia hosts the first day of 'Costas Afortunadas'. This enclave not only represents a historical, archaeological and natural treasure, but also a symbol of the identity of our municipality and the history of Gran Canaria. We deeply appreciate that this place has been chosen to start a project that recognizes the value of our roots and the importance of protecting them.”
Likewise, the volunteer of the Salsipuedes Cultural Association, Diana Travieso, explained that “this initiative not only seeks to raise awareness about the ecological importance of our coastal spaces, but also to highlight their cultural and human relevance. This project weaves a story of our coasts, combining art, culture and environmental awareness in a unique theatrical proposal. We want to show that our coasts are not only beautiful landscapes, but living memory and shared heritage that is part of our collective identity. Each coastal corner of the Canary Islands tells a story, from the oral testimonies of those who have lived and worked in these places to the changes they have experienced over time. It is an exercise of respect towards those who inhabit these places and, above all, an act of celebration of who we are.”
The coast as a mirror of identity
The ‘Costas Afortunadas’ project proposes a tour of the most emblematic coastal enclaves of the Canary Islands, combining historical dissemination, photography and the stories of its inhabitants. Throughout two phases, which will take place between 2025 and 2026, this initiative will visit towns such as Tufia (Gran Canaria), El Poris de Candelaria (La Palma), Playa de Santiago (La Gomera), La Restinga (El Hierro), Bocacangrejo (Tenerife), Famara (Lanzarote), El Puertito de Los Molinos (Fuerteventura) and La Graciosa, revealing the diversity and uniqueness of these places.
The project highlights the need to preserve these environments, valuing their relevance both environmentally and in the construction of collective memory. Through exhibitions, historical recreations and a participatory approach, 'Costas Afortunadas' seeks to promote a reflection on local and Canarian identity as a whole. The Salsipuedes Cultural Association, a collaborator of the project, will bring to life key historical moments of each town through theatrical performances, enriching the experience of the participants with an emotional and didactic connection to the past.
To conclude, Pablo Rodríguez has stated that "this initiative is a sensitive planning tool that not only documents the evolution of our coasts, but defends their value as living spaces, full of history and future. Our coastline is not only a natural or tourist resource, it is a legacy that tells us about who we are and where we want to go."
