Overview
- The visitor took the stones from Timanfaya National Park years ago and mailed them back with a handwritten note citing bad‑luck legends and a request to scatter them at the visitor centre’s ‘hot coals’ spot.
- Timanfaya reminded the public that removing natural elements from the protected area can result in fines of up to about €3,000, with higher penalties for serious infractions.
- Authorities say airports in the Canary Islands frequently confiscate rocks and sand that tourists try to carry home as souvenirs.
- A park spokeswoman said the rock “belongs to nature,” stressing that taking it undermines the island’s culture and biodiversity, with officials outlining risks such as erosion and loss of habitat for insects, lizards and birds.
- The park recently shared the letter publicly, and there has been no indication that this specific return led to fines or prosecution.