The construction of this simple and humble temple dates back to 1768, being built in the centre of the old historic centre of Arico Nuevo by its noble inhabitants; Martínez de la Peña affirms that its modest construction was due to the coincidence with the construction of their own houses and with the works that were also being carried out at that time in the parish of San Juan Bautista (Lomo de Arico), which they also had to deal with.
From 1895 until the mid-20th century, the original church underwent a series of extensions, at the same time as the population grew.
It was in 1929 that, by decree of Fray Alvino González, it was established as the parish church of Nuestra Señora de la Luz, finally splitting off as a subsidiary of that of San Juan Bautista.
Today, it is striking for its singular simplicity, the simple lines of its façade, its undulating roof and its polybulated belfry made of stonework and with two bells.
However, its most valuable historical and artistic piece is to be found inside. It is the primitive image of Nuestra Señora de la Luz de los Abrigos de Abona (or Candelaria de Abona), better known today as Virgen de Tajo. Her image was made in golden clothing, carrying an apple in her left hand, while holding the child in her right.
Her carving comes from the late Gothic period of the early 16th century, making it one of the oldest works of art in the whole of southern Tenerife. In fact, there are authors who even defend its veneration by the Guanches in the so-called Cave of the Virgin or Church of Los Guanches (El Porís), before the conquest. What does seem to be true is that since she appeared on the coast at the place of La Punta, she was venerated from the very beginning.
“Another image is said to have appeared on the beach of Abona, a little more than a span high, which is called Nuestra Señora de Tajo” (Fray Alonso de Espinosa, “Historia de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria”, 16th century).
It is said that on the beach of Abona (La Punta), lighted lights could be seen and celestial music could be heard when marching in procession to venerate the Virgin, which curiously used to leave traces of wax in the surrounding area. Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
