An archaeological expedition conducted by the Canary Islands Government and the La Orotava Council has uncovered human remains and artefacts linked to the former Franciscan convent of San Lorenzo in La Orotava, Tenerife.
This discovery sheds light on burial practices and daily life at one of the island's earliest monastic foundations.
The fieldwork, led by the PRORED archaeology team since 2021, revealed the remains of eight bodies—three adults and five children—buried under traditional funerary rites. These graves date back to the late 17th and early 18th centuries, prior to a devastating fire in 1801 that destroyed much of the convent.
Insights into Burial Practices
The findings confirm that the convent served as a burial site for people of all ages. In some instances, children's remains were interred within existing adult graves, a common practice during the period.
The excavation also uncovered a variety of artefacts, including a coin, a pin, several buttons, and a pipe, providing a glimpse into the clothing, daily life, and furnishings of those associated with the convent.
In addition to the burials, architectural elements such as stone blocks, bricks, and fragments of original structures were identified, offering valuable context about the organisation and design of this historic site.
Preservation Efforts Underway
Conservation work has been carried out on key architectural features, including a stone arch and a Corinthian-style column, which were part of the convent’s interior nave. These efforts aim to protect the historical site and enhance its future accessibility.
According to Miguel Ángel Clavijo, Director General of Culture and Cultural Heritage, the discoveries are critical to understanding the legacy of what Viera y Clavijo referred to as “The Escorial of the Canaries.” Clavijo emphasised the significance of preserving this piece of hidden history for its impact not only on La Orotava but on the entire archipelago.
A Window into Local History
The Mayor of La Orotava, Francisco Linares, praised the project, highlighting its role in uncovering local history and preserving the community’s cultural heritage. “These investigations help keep history alive and allow us to learn more about the lives of our ancestors,” he said.
The archaeological campaign will continue with further analysis of the findings and the implementation of restoration measures to safeguard this historic site for generations to come.