Mother Parish of the Apostle Santiago (Los Realejos)

In the heart of Los Realejos, on the enchanting island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, stands a beacon of history and faith: the Mother Parish of the Apostle Santiago, known locally as Parroquia Matriz del Apóstol Santiago. This revered edifice is not just a place of worship but a monument that weaves together the rich tapestry of the region's history, culture, and architectural splendor.

The Historical Significance

The Mother Parish of the Apostle Santiago holds the distinction of being one of the earliest religious constructions in Tenerife, dating back to the year 1496. This was a pivotal time right after the conquest of the island, marking the end of the military campaigns. It is believed that Alonso Fernández de Lugo, the conqueror of Tenerife, and his followers, driven by their religious fervor and the spirit of gratitude, decided to erect a temple dedicated to Saint James the Apostle. This decision was further influenced by the settlers from Gáldar in Gran Canaria, who had a long-standing devotion to Saint James.

The church became a cornerstone for the burgeoning Christian community, especially after the baptism of the nine Guanche menceyes (kings) on July 25, 1496. This event symbolized the integration of the indigenous people into the Christian faith, necessitating a dedicated place for worship and community gatherings. By 1498, the church was officially recognized as a parish, underscoring its growing importance in the region.

Architectural Evolution

The original structure of the Mother Parish of the Apostle Santiago was a modest, thatched-roof building, reflecting the simplicity and urgency of its early construction. However, as the community grew, so did the church. The 16th century saw significant enhancements, including the creation of a more substantial building. The main entrance, crafted in 1570 by Juan Benítez, now serves as the north entrance and is known as the Jacobean portal, showcasing the artistic craftsmanship of the period.

The interior of the church, as described in a 1591 inventory, featured three main altars dedicated to Saint James as a pilgrim, Saint Bartholomew, Saint Benedict, and Saint Anthony of Padua. The church also housed a revered image of Our Lady of Remedies, along with statues of Saint Sebastian and Saint Michael the Archangel, many of which still hold a place of honor today.

Expansion and Restoration

The 17th century brought about extensive renovations and expansions. The initial structure had fallen into disrepair, prompting a significant rebuilding effort in 1604. The new design included the use of stone from local quarries and tiles manufactured in the region. By 1610, the north nave, now the Chapel of Our Lady of Remedies, was established, incorporating the original main entrance as its access point.

The south nave, or the Epistle side, was constructed in 1626, using stone from the Acentejo quarries. This period of construction culminated in the rebuilding of the presbytery in 1667, erasing the last remnants of the old church. The wooden ceilings, particularly the intricately decorated main chapel roof, were crafted with timber from Tigaiga, adorned with gilding and polychrome by master craftsman Andrés Gómez.

The church tower, a defining feature of the Los Realejos skyline, was erected in 1774. Its ceramic-scaled spire, restored in 2005-2006, stands as a distinctive landmark, albeit with some debate over the restoration's fidelity to its weathered, historical appearance.

Modern Enhancements

The 20th century saw further modifications to the Mother Parish of the Apostle Santiago. In 1922, the deteriorating stone arches and columns were replaced with concrete, introducing Ionic-style capitals. The 1960s brought about the addition of new chapels, extending the church's footprint and unfortunately resulting in the loss of the original wooden choir and a 17th-century organ.

The Interior Splendor

Inside, the church's grandeur is evident in its rich decoration and historical artifacts. The Chapel of the Nazarene, formerly the Chapel of Our Lady of Succor, underwent significant enhancements in 1630. The Animas (Souls) Altarpiece, dating back to 1669 and funded by Francisco Yánez Barroso, is one of the oldest of its kind in the Canary Islands, reflecting the Counter-Reformation's influence.

In 1776, further modifications to the Animas Altarpiece were undertaken, enhancing its artistic and religious significance. The church's interior, with its blend of historical and modern elements, offers a captivating journey through centuries of faith and community dedication.

Visiting the Mother Parish of the Apostle Santiago is not just a step into a religious sanctuary but a walk through the annals of Tenerife's history. Its walls echo the stories of conquest, faith, and resilience, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of the Canary Islands.