The preparations for Pope Leo XIV's visit to the Canary Islands have mobilized a wide range of local professionals, from cabinetmakers and blacksmiths to architects and technicians. These artisans have been fundamental in bringing to life the unique elements designed by Alejandro Beautell, responsible for the main spaces in Tenerife, such as the altar, the port's canopy in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and the papal seat.
Architect Alejandro Beautell has emphasized the collective nature of architecture, highlighting that projected ideas take shape thanks to the hands of artisans. The recent installation of the metal canopy at the port area, a 30-ton structure, is a clear example of coordinated effort and execution against the clock to meet one of the most significant events for the archipelago.
Significant pieces such as the seat for Leo XIV, the chairs for the concelebrating bishops, the altar, and the ambo have been crafted from ash wood in the workshop of cabinetmaker José Antonio Hernandez González, a native of Los Realejos. The collaboration between his workshop and the architecture studio allowed for design adjustments and accelerated production in an extraordinarily short time, demonstrating craftsmanship's ability to tackle major challenges.
The choice to work with local workshops was a deliberate commitment by Beautell, who considers artisanal knowledge a fundamental value of the archipelago. The company Soldavi, led by Aquilino Dorta, undertook the construction of the 28-meter span steel canopy, completed in just two weeks. Professionals like Piko Zárate, Jony, Jaime, Sergio, and Alberto also formed part of the team that demonstrated their skill and commitment.
The project has also benefited from the collaboration of painters, gardeners, transporters, security technicians, and logistics managers, including figures such as Paco, Manuel Asensio and his security team, and Fran Vera. The Port Authority of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the Cabildo de Tenerife, along with volunteers and numerous anonymous collaborators, complete the list of those who have made this collective work possible.
Beautell advocates for a more artisanal approach to architecture, drawing by hand, building models, and making decisions on-site. This philosophy is reflected in his connection with traditional trades, sharing a common vision of work focused on detail, material care, and step-by-step construction, leaving the mark of those who made the papal visit a reality.
