We learn about the origins of the order of the new Holy Father, which shares the same name as one of the most popular tourist areas of San Bartolomé de Tirajana.
While in Rome the white smoke rose announcing the new Pope, in the south of Gran Canaria the San Agustin beach continued with his usual calm. However, the appointment of Leo XIV, belonging to the Order of Saint Augustine, has sparked curiosity about this key corner of the island's tourist map that coincidentally shares a name with one of the Church Fathers.
San Agustín, known for its tranquility and for being somewhat further away from the hustle and bustle that reigns in other areas such as English beach o Meloneras, was one of the first centers of tourist development in the south of the island in the 60s. Today, its tanned sand beach, its accommodation options, and its shopping areas continue to be a haven for sun seekers, but without the "overwhelm" of busier areas like Playa del Inglés.
The new pontiff, Robert Francis Prevost, has adopted the name Leo XIV and is a member of the Order of Saint Augustine, which is why he has visited the Canary Islands twice, specifically the Augustinian community of Puerto de la Cruz (Tenerife), the only one currently present in the archipelago. His election has been seen as a continuation of Francis' legacy, with a pastoral approach and closeness to the communities. Of American origin and with Spanish roots on his mother's side, Prevost also has missionary experience in Peru. The Vatican describes him as a calm and communicative leader, although his name was not among the main favorites for the conclave.
But returning to the south of Gran Canaria... how did one of the island's most touristic areas end up sharing a name with one of Christianity's greatest thinkers?
Saint Augustine of Hippo, born in 354 in present-day Algeria, is one of the most influential figures in Christian thought. His life was a constant search between hedonism and faith, until he eventually became a bishop and author of fundamental works such as The Confessions and The City of God. His reflections on the soul, free will, and grace continue to shape doctrine more than a thousand years later.
His legacy was the starting point for the official founding of the Order of Saint Augustine in the 40th century, which united various groups of hermits who followed his monastic rule. Over time, the order established itself as one of the most influential within the Church, combining contemplative life with pastoral work and missions. Today, its presence extends to more than XNUMX countries, and its imprint lives on in the Vatican's organizational chart.
As for the Gran Canaria beach, the name San Agustín was no coincidence. It was assigned in 1961, during the first stages of tourism development in southern Gran Canaria. The name was chosen due to its affinity with the historical names of the County of Vega Grande de Guadalupe. Urbanization officially began on October 15, 1962, and San Agustín thus became one of the first holiday resorts in southern Gran Canaria.
