The Department of Historical Heritage of the Arona City Council, led by Naím Yánez, has enriched its documentary collection with a significant unpublished collection from the legacy of Buenaventura Ordóñez Vellar. The donation, made by Dolores Vilalta, heir to part of his personal archive, includes a notable collection of poems and a handwritten note from the then prince Juan Carlos de Borbón, a document of great historical interest.
This new acquisition will allow for a deeper understanding of the personal, intellectual, and human trajectory of Buenaventura Ordóñez Vellar, a key figure in the contemporary history of Arona, both for his professional work and his commitment to the municipality.
Buenaventura Ordóñez Vellar, originally from Torregrosa (Lérida), practiced medicine for decades in Los Cristianos and served as the mayor of Arona between 1960 and 1966. During his term, he promoted social, health, and cultural initiatives, as well as fostering significant agreements such as the appointment of Santísimo Cristo de la Salud as Perpetual Mayor in 1962.
His figure was closely linked to the growth of Los Cristianos in its early tourism development, contributing from his medical practice to the well-being of the local population and maintaining a close relationship with the Swedish community established in the municipality, with whom he actively collaborated during the beginnings of this important international link.
In recognition of his contribution to the progress of Arona, the City Council dedicated a street in his name in Los Cristianos, keeping alive the memory of his profound impact in both the healthcare and public service fields.
With this addition, the Department of Historical Heritage continues to strengthen the municipality's documentary heritage, aiming to conserve, research, and disseminate the legacy of individuals who have helped build the identity of Arona. The collection will shed light on a lesser-known facet of Buenaventura Ordóñez Vellar, his literary side, while ensuring the preservation of his work and historically valuable documents for future generations.
The Arona City Council has expressed its special gratitude to Dolores Vilalta for her generosity and trust in donating this significant legacy, making it possible for a substantial part of the municipality's historical memory to become common heritage.
