Redaccion
The Crafts Area of the Cabildo de Lanzarote has launched an original and significant initiative that is part of the program of actions aimed at strengthening the tradition and future of the island’s cultural heritage, something that has been promoted by the Institution chaired by Oswaldo Betancort since the beginning of this term.
For the first time, wheat has been sown and harvested in one of the plots of the Cabildo’s Experimental Agricultural Farm with the aim of supplying raw materials to twenty artisans dedicated to making hats in Lanzarote and La Graciosa.
This practical gesture is not an isolated event. As emphasized by the island’s Crafts Councilor, Aroa Revelo, who highlighted the value of institutional support for traditional trades: «The artisans of Lanzarote and La Graciosa are guardians of tradition, and we want these types of initiatives to make a difference. For the first time, wheat is planted with the firm purpose of ensuring the continuity of our craftsmanship, keeping alive the raw material that gives rise to so many pieces full of history and meaning. Sowing wheat is more than an agricultural act: it is a declaration of commitment to our roots and the future of our artisan communities. It is sowing identity, culture, and sustainability for future generations.»
In addition, the councilor has expressed her gratitude to the Agricultural Farm for their involvement and collaboration in this action, which will be repeated in future campaigns with the aim of consolidating a supply network that allows for the self-sufficiency of this important resource for local craftsmanship.
Wheat has been used in the making of Canary Island hats, especially in Lanzarote, as internal material to give shape and structure to the garment.
Furthermore, the Crafts Area of the Cabildo continues to look for alternatives to supply palm leaves to the artisans of the island.
The hat, an ally to protect our skin
In this context, Revelo also wanted to invite the entire population of Lanzarote and La Graciosa to rediscover and proudly use the traditional hat. «The hat is not just a piece associated with rural life, folklore, or the typical image of the Lanzarote peasant woman. It fulfilled – and continues to fulfill – perfectly the function of protecting the face and head from the strong sun of our land, becoming an essential ally in maintaining healthy skin,» commented Revelo.
The Cabildo de Lanzarote emphasizes the need for a vibrant, sustainable craftsmanship deeply rooted in the landscape and history of the island.
