The initiative aims to highlight the importance these animals had in agriculture, transport, and daily life in the midlands of La Palma. Mayor Idafe Hernández emphasizes that 'La Burrada' allows us to "look at our past to value a fundamental part of our towns' history".
Hernández underscores the goal for this first edition to be a meeting point between generations and municipalities, "recovering our traditions and bringing them closer, especially to the younger ones." He notes that rural heritage "is not only in our buildings or landscapes, but also in the ways of life, knowledge, and trades of those who preceded us."
The central activity will be a 5.3-kilometer interpretive route starting from the Cruz del Calvario, passing through the Municipal Market, and covering sections of the Camino Real GR-130 to reach the picnic area of Montaña de la Breña in Breña Baja.
During the route, interpretive stops and demonstrations will take place, such as the use of traditional tools and the loading of animals at the Municipal Market, and a traditional plowing demonstration at another point.
The councilor responsible for the area, Julián Delgado, explains that 'La Burrada' aims to be "an experience where we can walk the same paths our neighbors traversed with their animals for decades and explain on-site what they were used for, how they were loaded, and their importance to our towns' economy."
Delgado highlights the importance of recovering the Camino Real as the setting, stating, "there are few better ways to explain our history than by walking it." The route, just over five kilometers, seeks to "enjoy the landscape while recovering a part of our rural memory."
The organization has planned rest stops and attention to the welfare of the participating animals, who must meet identification and health control requirements. Interested animal owners can register by calling 922 440 003 (ext. 300) at the Villa de Mazo City Council.
The day will conclude at the Montaña de la Breña picnic area with a communal meal and a static animal exhibition, creating a meeting space for equine owners, groups, walkers, and visitors.
'La Burrada' is organized by the Villa de Mazo City Council, with the collaboration of the Breña Baja City Council, and funded by the Government of the Canary Islands within the Dinamiza Rural program.
The council aims for this first edition to be continued in the coming years and for 'La Burrada' to become consolidated as an insular event dedicated to the conservation and promotion of rural heritage, traditional paths, and the culture linked to equines on La Palma.
