Masonic Temple of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the Masonic Temple of Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Templo Masónico de Santa Cruz de Tenerife) stands as a testament to the rich and enigmatic history of Freemasonry in Spain. This architectural gem, located on San Lucas Street, is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by the mysteries of the Masonic tradition or simply interested in exploring unique historical sites.

The History of the Masonic Temple of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The origins of the Masonic Temple trace back to the late 19th century. The cornerstone was laid in 1899, and the temple was designed by the talented local architect Manuel de Cámara y Cruz. Although the construction of the temple took over two decades, its interior was completed early in the 20th century, allowing it to be inaugurated and used by the Añaza Lodge. The Añaza Lodge, founded on August 8, 1895, quickly became the most significant Masonic workshop in the Canary Islands during the 20th century, playing a crucial role in reorganizing Canary Masonry.

The temple's construction was a labor of love, funded by the Añaza Lodge. The initial budget was 15,000 pesetas, but the final cost soared to 20,008 pesetas. The building was not just a place of worship and ritual but also served the community. The Añaza Lodge established a free educational center, the Añaza School, and even sold the current Ireneo González Training Center to the municipality for a symbolic price, with the condition that it continued to provide free education.

Architectural Marvel

The Masonic Temple is a striking example of Masonic symbolism and architectural grandeur, primarily inspired by Egyptian motifs. The façade is a sight to behold, with its three distinct sections. The central section features two colossal columns with smooth shafts and palm-leaf capitals, supporting a grand triangular pediment. This pediment houses the all-seeing eye, a representation of the Supreme Being or the Great Architect of the Universe in Masonic symbolism.

Flanking the central columns are four sphinxes, each lying on its belly and adorned with a claft, a traditional Egyptian headdress. These sphinxes were sculpted by the renowned artist Guzmán Compañ Zamorano. The main entrance is intricately carved with geometric patterns, and above it, the lintel is decorated with palm leaves and a solar disk with eagle wings, symbolizing Horus, the Egyptian god of the sky. The building rests on a sturdy base known as a stereobate, adding to its imposing presence.

Exploring the Interior

Upon entering the temple, visitors are greeted by a vestibule that leads to the main hall, known as the Salón de Tenidas. This hall is a marvel of design, featuring a mosaic floor, relief columns, and an elevated space that once presided over the room. Although the original frescoes on the ceiling have been repainted in white, and the wooden structure is now covered by a false aluminum ceiling, the room still exudes an air of solemnity and grandeur.

One of the most intriguing features of the temple is the Chamber of Reflections, located in the basement. This chamber, carved out of a natural volcanic tube, was used for Masonic rituals and introspection. On the second floor, visitors can explore the Banquet Hall, which offers a glimpse into the social aspects of Masonic life. The top floor houses several rooms that were once used for various purposes by the lodge members.

Dark Times and Renewal

The temple's history took a dark turn on September 15, 1936, when it was seized by the Francoist regime. The building was repurposed for various uses, including serving as a warehouse for the Military Pharmacy and later as an optical center for the army. It even housed soldiers until it was finally closed in 1990. The archives of the Añaza Lodge were confiscated and are now part of the Civil War Section of the National Historical Archive in Salamanca.

In 2001, the Spanish government sold the building to the municipality of Santa Cruz de Tenerife for over 470,000 euros. After years of neglect, a restoration project was launched in November 2021, led by the city's mayor, José Manuel Bermúdez, and architect María Nieves Febles. With a budget of over 3 million euros, the restoration aims to revive the temple's former glory, with completion expected in two years.

A Symbol of Memory and Heritage

In recognition of its historical significance, the Masonic Temple of Santa Cruz de Tenerife was declared a Cultural Interest Site in 2007. In 2023, it was further honored as a Monument to Historical Memory by the Government of the Canary Islands, serving as a memorial to the victims persecuted by the Franco regime, both Masons and non-Masons.

Today, the Masonic Temple of Santa Cruz de Tenerife stands as a beacon of history, culture, and resilience. Its walls echo the stories of a bygone era, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the world of Freemasonry and the tumultuous history of Spain. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, this temple is a must-visit destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.