Intervención en la ermita de Puerto Escondido
The renovation efforts at the site known as the ermita de Puerto Escondido have sparked significant debate. Interestingly, while many refer to this structure as an ermita (hermitage), some experts argue that it should actually be called a capellanía, or chapel. According to historian Castañeyra, “there is no evidence” to categorize this building as a true ermita, primarily because it has never possessed the architectural characteristics typical of such religious edifices.
This site suffered extensively from a fire last year, but Castañeyra pointed out that its condition deteriorated more due to poor restoration efforts than the fire itself. The expert noted that the misguided interventions contributed to the loss of original elements, particularly the intricate polychromy that adorned the building. He emphasized that “removing the polychromy from a building is like taking the skin off a person”, highlighting how these decorative features are integral to the character and memory associated with the structure.
Intervención en la Molina de la Charca
Turning to another controversial restoration, Castañeyra offered scathing remarks regarding the renovation of the Molina de la Charca, located in Puerto del Rosario. He characterized this intervention as “the manual of what not to do”. His critique extended to various aspects of the project: the materials used, the building’s height, the flooring, and the overall visual coherence of the structure. According to him, “there is not a single aspect that has turned out well”, indicating a dismal assessment of the restoration outcomes.
Another case that drew Castañeyra’s attention was the Casa Alta de Tindaya. He referenced existing photographic documentation that illustrated the building’s condition prior to restoration. Unfortunately, this invaluable resource was reportedly not utilized during the renovation process, resulting in a loss of patrimonial value to such an extent that he famously remarked, “it looks like another building”. This highlights not only the importance of historical documentation but also the consequences of neglecting it.
Proteger y mantener la cornisa de Puerto del Rosario
In light of these troubling trends in restoration practices, Castañeyra advocates for a more respectful approach to conservation. He firmly believes that restoration should not be about showcasing the technician’s signature but about preserving the original work as faithfully as possible. “The highest compliment that can be paid to a restorer might be that it seems like it hasn’t been restored but rather conserved,” he stated with conviction. This sentiment underscores a growing call within the preservation community for a more sensitive and historically informed approach to architectural restoration, prioritizing the integrity and authenticity of cultural heritage.
