BU Mint Set

The national park was established in 1981 and covers just under 4,000 hectares in the centre and north of La Gomera. It has been on the World Heritage List since 1986. Its highest point is the 1,487-metre-high Alto de Garajonay. The terrain is characterised by deeply incised valleys and steep mountain slopes that arose from the volcanic history of the Canary Islands.

The interaction between altitude and the northeast trade winds is crucial for the vegetation. Moist air masses accumulate on the mountains and frequently form fog. This settles on leaves and branches and additionally supplies the soil with water. This phenomenon, known as horizontal precipitation, enables consistently high humidity despite low regular rainfall. The forest includes various laurel trees, tree heath and sweet gale. It also provides a habitat for numerous species found only in the Canary Islands or Macaronesia, including the Laurel Pigeon and Bolle’s Pigeon.

Roque de Agando is not a structure but a volcanic rock formation. It formed from solidified magma inside an earlier volcano. Erosion removed the softer surrounding rock, while the more resistant core remained standing. Agando belongs to a group of such rock formations known as Los Roques, which is protected as a natural monument.

The name Garajonay is traditionally associated with the legend of Gara and Jonay. In different versions, it tells of two young lovers from the pre-Hispanic island world whose relationship is prevented and ends fatally. The story forms part of La Gomera’s cultural heritage; its historical basis has not been established.

The issue is connected with a Spanish coin series that has featured UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain annually since 2010. The selection of Garajonay thus followed this long-term programme and was not linked to a single anniversary.