Located on the Tamaide hillside between La Orotava and Santa Úrsula, the cave was subjected to an intrusion after the security door protecting the site was forced open. The site was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC) in 1986 and is historically significant as the residence of the mencey Bencomo.
The association warns that the presence of livestock is causing irreversible damage. Experts note that the trampling of the animals destroys sedimentary layers containing historical data, while chemical corrosion from waste degrades both the cave walls and organic remains.
“"It is a disgrace that what was once the seat of power for the Menceyato of Taoro has ended up turned into a stable due to institutional neglect."
Archaeological studies conducted between 2017 and 2018 confirmed the presence of obsidian tools and original structural markings. The association has demanded that the Cabildo de Tenerife identify those responsible and initiate disciplinary proceedings, noting that the Canarian Cultural Heritage Law allows for fines of up to 1.5 million euros for damaging protected sites.
