The Canary Islands have played an important part in the history of both Europe and the Americas and if you’re a history buff there’s a lot to be seen on the islands. Although there is evidence of human occupation since before the Romans, a lot of the documented history spans the last 500 years. After being conquered by Spain, the Canary Islands were an important stop off for the journey to South America. Although there are many historical sites in the Canary Islands, here are a few of the top ones.
Valeron Monastery, Gran Canaria
The Valeron Monastery is among the oldest historical sites in the Canary Islands and dates back to the Stone Age. There are a total of 298 caves to see and they were traditionally believed to hold religious significance for the island’s inhabitants. It was thought that it was a place for young girls to prepare spiritually for marriage. Modern archaeological evidence suggests that the caves were actually used for storing grain. Either way, they are very interesting and are one of the very few historical sites that relate to the pre-Spanish population.
To get there, take the C-180 to Las Palmas, head east of Guia until you reach the Cuesta de Silva and take the road up to the car park. The caves are free to enter and you can see inside most of them although you do have to stick to the paths. In the summer months, the heat from sun reflecting off the rocks can get overwhelming so sun cream and hats are essential.
Basilica of Candelaria, Tenerife
The Basilica of Candelaria is located on the island of Tenerife and is built for the Virgin of Candelaria, the patron saint of the Canary Islands. The statue that stands inside the Basilica represents the original that was found in 1392 by two shepherds; the legend says that one of them tried to throw a stone at it and his arm froze, while the other tried to stab it and stabbed himself. The current Basilica was built in 1959 but it sits on the site of much older buildings and still contains a lot of the historical feel of the area. The Basilica can be found on the seafront and is free to enter.
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Las Palmas is the capital of Gran Canaria and was founded in 1478. Las Palmas is a popular destination for Canary Islands holidays and although it is a modern, bustling city there are still a lot of important and fascinating historical sites to be seen. Most of them are located around the old quarter of La Vegueta with its cobbled streets and narrow alleys.
The Cathedral dates back over 600 years and contains a sizable example of religious art. It can be found on the Plaza Santa Ana and although entry into the cathedral is free, there is a charge of 3EUR for adults to enter the museum. The city hall is also located on Plaza Santa Ana; it was built roughly the same time as the cathedral and is a fine example of period architecture. As they are both so close, it’s worth visiting them at the same time.
Cueva Pintada (The Painted Caves), Gran Canaria
The painted caves date from the pre-Hispanic era of the Canary Islands and they were originally part of a settlement that contained over 50 houses. The caves were artificially excavated by the Gaunche people over a period from the 6th to the 16th century. After the Spanish took over Gran Canaria, the caves were lost until they were rediscovered in the 19th century.
The modern museum contains the well preserved remains of the caves and their paintings and what’s left of the village. Most of the painted caves can be seen alongside the various artefacts discovered through the excavation. The paintings are mainly red, black and white and contain different shapes and symbols. Some of the theories about what the paintings represent include religious or ceremonial meanings, female fertility or simple decoration but nobody knows for sure.
The museum is located on the Calle Audencia 2 in the Galdar area of Las Palmas. Entry is 3EUR for adults and less for children and seniors and it’s open all week except for Mondays.
Ursula Jones is a traveller and writer who has spent several years travelling the world, she now writes about travelling on behalf on BlueBay Resorts
