Kike Navarro – La Palma in pictures • 38

23 December 2022

Christmas balconies

— During an evening stroll through the capital Santa Cruz, astrophotographer and landscape photographer Kike Navarro takes us to what are probably the most famous balconies on the island of La Palma.

They are located on the Avenida Marítima and are always well maintained and decorated with flowers.

From mid-December, the additional Christmas decorations conjure up a very special atmosphere. Everyone who passes by stops to admire the balconies and take a photo. It's worth taking a close look, because among the fairy lights, baubles, lush foliage and flowers, garlands and red pointed hats, there are decorated trees and even Father Christmas. But the discreet lights do not steal the show from the stars; that is forbidden by the Sky Protection Act.

In the past, the sea broke only a few metres in front of these houses. Over the years, the picture has changed due to land reclamation. In addition to the popular Avenida Marítima, where you can promenade in almost summer temperatures even in winter, there is now a large sandy beach.

On the island, the festive season lasts until 6 January. That is the day when the Three Wise Men finally bring the presents.

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