Yaiza has paid tribute to Vicenta Bravo Marrero, who is approaching her 87th birthday, recognising the Femés native for a lifetime of hard work, resilience, and dedication to her family and community.
Born in 1939, Vicenta has become a respected figure in both Yaiza and across Lanzarote. A former salt worker and celebrated cook, she is admired not only for raising 13 children while overcoming significant personal hardships, including being widowed at the age of 52, but also for embodying perseverance and determination throughout her life.
Her remarkable contribution was recently acknowledged by the Lanzarote Cabildo, which awarded her the prestigious Jameo de Oro in the Heritage category. The nomination was put forward by Yaiza Mayor Óscar Noda.
Following the official 2026 Honours and Distinctions ceremony, held on 25 June at the Jameos del Agua auditorium, Noda visited Vicenta at her home to personally present her with a gift as a gesture of gratitude and admiration. He was joined by councillors Águeda Cedrés, Freya Finch, Ángel Lago and César Rijo.
Reflecting on the visit, Noda praised Vicenta’s character and achievements.
“Listening to Vicenta, words fail me when it comes to describing her humanity, her work ethic and her resilience. Those of us who grew up in the town have witnessed her dedication since we were children, so her life story is truly fascinating and inspiring,” he said, while also thanking her for her warm hospitality.
The mayor also spent time with Vicenta during the San Marcial festivities, the annual celebration that is the highlight of the calendar in Femés.
Vicenta’s life has been closely tied to the salt industry that once played a vital role along Lanzarote’s southern coast. As a young girl, she accompanied her mother and a donkey to the salt pans, helping prepare them each spring before the harvested salt was sold. Raised by her mother and grandmother, she developed extensive knowledge of this traditional trade from an early age.
Alongside her work in the salt pans, Vicenta became well known as the driving force behind the former Casa Emiliano restaurant in Femés, where her goat and rabbit dishes earned a loyal following.
Her dedication to preserving Lanzarote’s traditions has been recognised on several occasions. In addition to receiving this year’s Jameo de Oro, she was honoured in 2025 during commemorations marking the 50th anniversary of Timanfaya National Park, reflecting the lasting impact she has made on the island’s cultural heritage.
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