The place names of the Canary Islands serve not only a descriptive function but also reflect the collective emotions and perceptions of their inhabitants. According to Afonso, Leoncio, the emotional bond with the environment is evident in the naming of places, which can be grouped into categories such as topophilia and topophobia[1].
Topophilia, as defined by Afonso, is the emotional attachment that links humans to their surroundings, visible in toponyms that convey pleasant or positive sensations. Notable examples include La Graciosa, Alegranza, Vista Alegre, La Alegría, and Vallehermoso. These names, according to the author, are clear signs of “pronounced topophilia” and may also refer to the good quality of farmland or other valued attributes of a place[1].
Afonso points out that the sense of territorial belonging is so strong that any derogatory reference to one’s birthplace can be perceived as an insult. This feeling, which he calls “passionate loyalty,” is often exploited in politics by appealing to local pride. It is rare to find someone who rejects or is ashamed of their birthplace, as the sentimental reference is very pronounced[1].
On the other hand, topophobia refers to aversion or rejection of certain places, which is also reflected in Canarian toponymy. According to the source, these names are often linked to legends, stories of witches, hell, souls, the devil, or to the difficulty of the terrain, such as Malpaso or El Reventón. Some place names recall accidents or disasters, such as Topo del Fuego, or personal accidents marked by crosses along roads, like La Curva de Pablo[1].
The author highlights that, although most place names may seem neutral or objective, there is a significant abundance of those expressing positive or negative emotions. The complexity of the insular landscape, with its rugged terrain and history, encourages the emergence of names that evoke both attachment and caution toward certain places[1].
Afonso also mentions the existence of topolatry, the sacralization of space through religious toponymy, and toponegligence, which describes the loss of sense of place today due to uprooting and socio-economic changes. Nevertheless, topophilia and topophobia remain fundamental categories for understanding how Canarians have conceptualized and experienced their territory over time[1].
In conclusion, Canarian toponymy, according to Afonso, Leoncio, is a living reflection of the sensory and emotional experience of its inhabitants, with topophilia and topophobia allowing us to trace the marks of affection and aversion in the island landscape[1].