La Provincia - Diario de Las Palmas
Esta es la 'catedral' canaria que parece salida de Hogwarts
Un templo neogótico, con secretos masones y vidrieras francesas, que impresiona a quien lo ve por primera vez
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The Grand Church of Arucas: A Historical and Architectural Marvel in Gran Canaria
ARUCAS, GRAN CANARIA – The monumental Church of San Juan Bautista in Arucas, often colloquially known as the 'Cathedral of Arucas,' stands as a testament to centuries of local history and architectural ambition. Despite its grand scale and popular designation, the edifice is officially a parish church, not a cathedral. Its origins trace back to a modest hermitage built in the 15th century, following the conquest of the Canary Islands, to serve the Christian population working in the burgeoning sugar cane industry of Arucas. As Arucas prospered, so did its spiritual center. The current impressive structure began its construction in 1908, a project championed by local elites who sought to create a landmark that would leave a lasting impression on visitors. Designed by the Catalan architect Manuel Vega i March, the church's style is a unique blend, drawing inspiration from European Gothic architecture while incorporating modernist and even neoclassical elements. The distinctive dark hues of its facade are a result of being built entirely from local Arucas stone, a construction process that spanned over 60 years. Standing at approximately 60 meters, its bell tower dominates the skyline. Historical accounts suggest that the church's construction was significantly supported by influential local families. Furthermore, some researchers propose that certain symbols integrated into the church's design may be linked to Freemasonry, adding an intriguing layer to its rich history.
