Loro Parque pays tribute to the Lanzarote-born artist on the anniversary of his birth, highlighting his decisive role in the protection and development of the park.
The history of Loro Parque is hardly conceivable without César Manrique. Beyond his work as an internationally recognised artist, the visionary from Lanzarote played a decisive role at one of the most critical moments in the park’s history. He became a key ally in defending the site and played a defining role in shaping the park’s identity.
Today, on the anniversary of his birth, Loro Parque recalls a special connection that went far beyond the personal, becoming an example of commitment to nature, sustainable development and the protection of the Canary Islands’ heritage.
The President of Loro Parque, Wolfgang Kiessling, stated: “To a great extent, Loro Parque is what it is today thanks to César. He helped me entirely selflessly, which speaks volumes about his exceptional human qualities.”
The relationship between Manrique and the Kiessling family evolved beyond personal ties into a shared cause focused on protecting the territory and promoting a sustainable development model. In the early 1980s, Loro Parque faced a critical threat when an urban development project proposed the construction of a road through the park, which would have entailed the expropriation of a substantial part of its land.
After exhausting institutional channels, Kiessling turned to César Manrique’s commitment and influence. The artist responded immediately, travelling to Puerto de la Cruz and leading a public action with significant media impact. Through a widely attended press conference and the mobilisation of residents from Punta Brava, significant public pressure was generated, ultimately leading to a reconsideration of the project.
The outcome was an agreement that allowed most of the park to be preserved, thereby securing its continued development. This episode not only marked a turning point in the history of Loro Parque, but also clearly demonstrated the power of civic engagement in protecting the territory.
Beyond his role as a supporter, César Manrique had a profound influence on the conceptual and aesthetic identity of the park. As a pioneer of ecological thinking in the Canary Islands, he advocated a model in which progress should be harmoniously integrated into the natural environment.
This philosophy is reflected in the development of Loro Parque, where architecture, vegetation and landscape are conceived as an inseparable whole. A vision that connects directly with some of his most emblematic works in the Archipelago, such as Playa Jardín and Lago Martiánez, and which today represents one of the defining features of the Animal Embassy.
The recognition of César Manrique remains present throughout Loro Parque. A commemorative plaque in the heart of the park reminds visitors of his contribution.
In addition, in 2019, on the occasion of the centenary of his birth, the Hotel Botánico hosted a remarkable exhibition of his most significant works, initiated by Wolfgang Kiessling as a gesture of gratitude and admiration for the artist.
On this anniversary of his birth, Loro Parque not only honours an exceptional artist, but also a committed advocate whose actions were instrumental in ensuring that the park could continue its mission in conservation, education and environmental awareness.
César Manrique’s legacy can be felt throughout the park, reminding us that a balance between development and nature is not only possible, but essential.
