Levando redes, Homenaje al Pescador – Raising the Net, Homage to the Fisherman

Description

If you’re wandering through the heart of Arrecife on the vibrant island of Lanzarote, you might find yourself pausing at a striking sculpture along Calle Agustín de la Hoz Betancort. This is Levando redes, Homenaje al Pescador—translated as Raising the Net, Homage to the Fisherman. This impressive public monument beautifully captures Lanzarote’s maritime heritage, honoring the generations of local fishers who have shaped Arrecife’s character.

The statue is not just a passive fixture; it seems to ripple with movement. The metal figures, life-sized and dynamic, depict a group of fishermen mid-task, collaboratively heaving up a fishing net heavy with the promise of the day’s catch. The scene feels alive, a snapshot from everyday coastal life in Lanzarote, and one that resonates with anyone who loves the sea or appreciates the hard work often hidden behind the island’s plentiful seafood.

What struck me most during my first visit was how the monument commands attention while blending seamlessly into its urban seaside setting. There’s an authentic energy here—a raw, emotional tribute to Lanzarote’s working-class heroes. It’s not just an art installation; it’s a moment of shared history, accessible to everyone strolling the promenade.

Children are usually fascinated by the sculpture’s lifelike detail (and yes, it’s a good spot to teach young travelers about local culture). For adults, it’s a place to pause, reflect, and maybe snap a photo with Arrecife’s harbor in the background.

Key Features

• Lifelike Representation: The figures are cast with such detail that you can see the tension in their muscles and the concentration on their faces. The net—which almost looks as though it’s swaying in the ocean breeze—adds another layer of realism.
• Prime Location: Situated along the promenade in Arrecife, the monument offers panoramic views of the harbor. It’s a wonderful spot for photos, with fishing boats bobbing in the background.
• Symbolic Significance: The sculpture is a heartfelt tribute to the city’s long-standing fishing tradition—a big part of what shapes local identity here in Lanzarote.
• Accessible and Family-Friendly: The area around the monument is stroller-friendly and open, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. Benches nearby allow for a restful moment.
• Cultural Touchstone: Both locals and travelers often use the sculpture as a meeting point, and you’ll see community events or small markets occasionally popping up in the vicinity.
• Artistic Influence: Created by the acclaimed sculptor Emiliano Hernández, it’s celebrated for its craftsmanship and respectful storytelling through form.

Best Time to Visit

In my experience, Levando redes, Homenaje al Pescador can be enjoyed year-round, thanks to Lanzarote’s mild climate. However, there are certain times when the scene feels especially magical. If you arrive in the early morning (around 8 to 10 am), you’ll find soft sunlight illuminating the metal, casting beautiful shadows and bringing the statues’ features to life. Alternatively, come in the late afternoon—especially just before sunset—and you might catch that golden hour glow reflecting off both the monument and the harbor waters.

The promenade tends to be busiest late in the afternoon and on weekends, when local families and travelers alike gather by the seaside. That said, mornings are often quieter and ideal if you want space for uninterrupted photos or a contemplative moment. The area comes alive during local festivals and fisher-themed celebrations; if your visit coincides with one, you’ll have a richer cultural experience (just expect more people and maybe some pop-up vendors nearby).

How to Get There

Getting to the Raising the Net, Homage to the Fisherman sculpture is straightforward, whether you’re staying in Arrecife or visiting for the day.

The monument is located at Calle Agustín de la Hoz Betancort, 29, just a short stroll from the main harbor area. If you’re arriving by bus, most lines stop at the “Parque Islas Canarias” or “Intercambiador” bus stations. From there, it’s less than a 10-minute walk—follow the harbor, enjoy the sea breeze, and you’ll spot the monument easily.

Coming by car? There’s street parking available near the promenade, though spaces can fill up fast during busy hours. I recommend looking for parking slightly further from the center and walking in. You’ll find bicycle rental options all over Arrecife, and the generally flat terrain makes for an easy ride.

For cruise visitors, the old harbor is a popular docking spot, putting you within walking distance of both the sculpture and several other central attractions. The monument is right by popular footpaths, so you’re unlikely to miss it—even if you’re just meandering along the waterfront.

Tips for Visiting

• Bring Your Camera: The play of light on the metallic figures is stunning, especially at sunrise or sunset. Wide-angle lenses best capture both the sculpture and its dramatic surroundings.
• Look for Interpretive Plaques: There’s usually a plaque near the base (in Spanish and sometimes English) telling a bit about the sculpture’s creation and purpose. It’s worth a read to contextualize what you’re seeing.
• Traveling with Children? Let youngsters interact from a respectful distance—many love tracing the detail on the fishermen’s hands or “helping” lift an imaginary net. The nearby promenade is safe for running off some energy.
• Combine With Local Activities: After your visit, stroll the harbor, sample the catch of the day at a local restaurant, or explore the nearby Castillo de San Gabriel.
• Check the Local Events Calendar: During certain festivals, especially those celebrating the sea and local heritage, you might encounter music or food stands near the monument—adding an extra layer of atmosphere to your visit.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The walkway around the attraction is even, but you’ll likely do a bit of walking to take in the surrounding sights.
• Respect the Artwork: While it’s tempting to get close for that perfect shot, avoid climbing or sitting directly on the sculpture. It’s a living tribute, and the local community takes pride in its upkeep.

Ultimately, a stop at Levando redes, Homenaje al Pescador in Arrecife offers more than just a photo opportunity—it’s a unique lens into Lanzarote’s coastal legacy. Even if your itinerary is packed, this evocative tribute to the city’s fishermen is worth a pause, letting you connect with the spirit of the Atlantic that defines so much of Lanzarote’s daily life.