On October 30, the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, located on the island of La Palma in the Canary Islands, celebrated its 70th anniversary as a protected natural area. Declared a national park in 1954, the park stands as one of Spain’s most treasured ecological sites.
To mark the occasion, the Department of Ecological Transition and Energy of the Government of the Canary Islands organised a commemorative ceremony at the park’s visitor centre. The event featured the unveiling of a plaque and speeches from regional leaders, highlighting the park’s importance to both the island and the Canary Islands as a whole.
Among the speakers, Mariano Hernández Zapata, the councillor for the area, praised the long-standing efforts to preserve Caldera de Taburiente. “For 70 years, this place has been protected and nurtured by dedicated people, ensuring it remains a natural heritage for all Canary Islanders. La Palma has a true natural jewel, and we bear the responsibility of protecting it for future generations,” said Zapata.
Caldera de Taburiente: A Symbol of Cultural and Natural Identity
Vice-President of the Cabildo, Juan Ramón Felipe, emphasised the park’s role as a symbol of La Palma’s identity and its ecological significance. “La Caldera de Taburiente is more than a national park; it is the heart of La Palma, a legacy of our identity that we must cherish and safeguard,” he noted. This dedication is echoed by the island’s community, for whom the park represents a place of pride and an essential part of their natural and cultural heritage.
The Caldera de Taburiente is not only a landscape of extraordinary beauty but also a sanctuary for a unique ecosystem. Carlos García, Director of the General State Administration in La Palma, noted the societal responsibility tied to the park’s preservation. “This celebration should evoke both pride and responsibility. Pride, because this park forms the backbone of La Palma’s ecosystem as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, and responsibility, as we are the stewards ensuring future generations can enjoy this magnificent natural space.”
Ecological and Geological Treasure
Ángel Palomares, the director of Caldera de Taburiente National Park, described it as an ecological marvel and a hub for scientific study. “This park is home to an impressive biodiversity and numerous archaeological sites. It’s ranked as one of the world’s top geological sites, making it a must-visit for geologists globally,” he remarked. The park’s unique volcanic landscape, lush forests, and dramatic ravines are coupled with historical and cultural layers, attracting thousands of nature enthusiasts and scientists each year.
The celebration of Caldera de Taburiente’s 70th anniversary highlights both the achievements and ongoing commitment to conserving this precious environment, ensuring that it remains a landmark of natural wonder and cultural pride for the Canary Islands.
