Deliverance of Tegueste 2022

In the Canary Islands, a librea is a group of people parading in uniform. In north-west Tenerife, the libreas are rooted in the traditions of local militia. The Deliverance of Tegueste has been designated as an Asset of Cultural Interest (Spanish acronym: BIC). Dating back to the seventeenth century, it is associated with thanksgiving to patron saints for protecting the town from plagues or from pirate attacks. Locals parade wearing traditional outfits and re-enacting scenes from country or religious life. At the same time, as soldiers march to the captain’s house, a battle ensues between the castle and the ships at sea in an exciting light and sound show.

The Deliverance of Tegueste is held every four years, and it marks the climax (big day) of the Festivities of Our Lady of Remedies. The re-enactment includes four main elements: the Militia, the Tegueste Ships, the Battle between the Ships and the Castle, and the Flower Dance. They all escort the Procession of Our Lady of Remedies, Patroness and Honorary Mayoress of Tegueste.