historic cannon discovered santa cruz tenerife works

Historic Defence Cannon Unearthed in Santa Cruz Works

Historic Cannon Uncovered in Santa Cruz Construction Site

Specialists from Museos de Tenerife are analysing the discovery of a large cannon found during construction work on an annexe building next to the island council headquarters in the heart of the capital. The site was historically on the city’s coastline, where the island’s defensive batteries were once located.

A Significant Defensive Artefact

According to initial observations, the cannon is made of iron, weighs approximately three tonnes, and is somewhat larger than other artillery pieces previously found in the area. It is believed to be linked to the historic defence of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Preservation and Future Display

The Vice-President of the Island Council, Lope Afonso, who visited the find yesterday alongside the Councillor for Culture, Museums and Sport, José Carlos Acha, explained that the cannon will undergo a process of study, conservation, and documentation by the technical teams of Museos de Tenerife. This body is responsible for the protection and promotion of the island’s heritage.

“Our objective is to guarantee its correct conservation and, subsequently, integrate it into the exhibition narrative of our centres, where it can be interpreted in its historical context,” highlighted Councillor Acha.

Assessment and Historical Context

The conservation team is currently evaluating the cannon’s characteristics, state of preservation, and intervention needs to proceed with its historical identification. Initial estimates suggest it could date from the late 16th century. The artillery piece is in poor condition, with a large amalgamation of earth and minerals surrounding it.

The final destination for this cannon will be the Castillo de San Cristóbal Interpretation Centre, located in the underground levels of the Plaza de España. “This place allows visitors to discover and contextualise the remains of the San Cristóbal Castle wall and learn more about the history and defensive system of the Island,” commented Lope Afonso.

Home to Tenerife’s Defensive History

The centre showcases the defensive system Tenerife once had, covering not only the castles of Santa Cruz—such as San Cristóbal, San Juan, or Paso Alto—but also those spread across the rest of the island. Some of these, like the castle of San Felipe in Puerto de la Cruz or San Miguel in Garachico, still stand today.

It also displays the ‘Cañón Tigre’ (Tiger Cannon), a piece of incalculable historical value that was decisive in defeating the English Admiral Horatio Nelson during his attempt to invade Tenerife in 1797.

A Complex Relocation Operation

However, moving the newly discovered cannon is considered a complex operation. It is being studied by the technicians of Museos de Tenerife in coordination with the company responsible for the construction work. The goal is to ensure both the conservation of the piece and its correct installation in the centre, where it will eventually be put on public display.

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