Coffins in the Teno Mountains on Tenerife are part of the local necessities that take place in a remote area when searching for solutions.
It is no longer necessary to prove that Tenerife is the ultimate hiking island. We have already explained the how and why in our article TENERIFE HIKING ISLAND. Reading a descriptive account from someone who has walked a sendero (hiking trail) is quite rare, which is why we are happy to give the floor to Bart Van Leemput.
A fairly easy hiking route along trails that allow us to enjoy the peace and silence of the landscapes, the incredibly beautiful views, and the gigantic gorges and deep ravines. We approach the outermost edge of the spectacular Acantilados de Los Gigantes, where only the ocean separates us from the sister island of La Gomera. Looking in the opposite direction, from the summit, we can see the Punta de Teno lighthouse in the distance.
Coffins
During this hike, we also get to enjoy the local livestock farming, an important means of livelihood in the area, particularly goat cheese production. Along the way, we encounter several goat farms, with herds of goats bleating in the distance.
On our path, we notice an old oven once used for baking tiles and a remarkable cave containing two coffins of different sizes.
After the Funeral
Teno Alto does not have a cemetery, so the deceased had to be transported to Buenavista del Norte. To facilitate this transport, two portable coffins were used. As a practical solution, two communal coffins were crafted and stored in a cave.
The deceased were placed inside and, with great effort, carried on foot via the Camino del Risco (Barranco de Bjamé) to the municipal cemetery. After the burial, the coffins were returned to the cave, awaiting their next use.
Recreational Area
The island government aims to raise awareness that recreational activities in a protected environment have a significant impact on endangered species that exist only in this region, such as the osprey (guincho) and the Tenerife giant lizard. Furthermore, the unique flora, such as the purple-blue lavender (Limonium spectabile), also known as Siempreviva de Guergue, must be preserved here.
The Teno lunar landscape captures the most extraordinary, otherworldly images in our minds.
View this route on Wikiloc.
Bart Van Leemput – Photocredits © Bart Van Leemput
Coffins in the Teno Mountains on Tenerife ©
More TRIVIA can be read [HERE].
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