Gran CanariaSights

Architectural, Cultural sights in Gran Canaria

  1. A

    Castillo de la Fortaleza

    This miniature stone-turreted castle was built fifty years ago, not for tourism purposes, but as a folly; it was also the home of local archaeologist, writer, artist and collector, the late Vicente Sanchez Araña.

    The museum has sixteen rooms which reflect the eclectic interests and energy of this veritable Renaissance man. The most impressive houses a well-labelled (in several languages) archaeological display - the Guanche artefacts were found in nearby caves. These include a tiny carved female idol; a Guanche symbol and one of only two in the world (the other is exhibited in a museum in France). Another room displays ancient armaments, including a 16th-century crossbow…

    reviewed

  2. B

    Casa/Museo de Pérez Galdós

    In 1843 the Canary Islands' most famous writer, Benito Pérez Galdós, was born in this house in the heart of old Las Palmas. He spent the first 19 years of his life here before moving on to Madrid and literary greatness.

    The house contains a reconstruction of the author's study, various personal effects and other objects related to his life. It is a delightful place with a pretty central courtyard. Guided tours take place hourly, but only in Spanish.

    reviewed

  3. Casa de los Patronos de la Virgen

    One of the loveliest houses in Teror is the 17th-century Casa de los Patronos de la Virgen. Pleasantly musty, this house is devoted to preserving 18th-century life and is full of intriguing odds and ends, mostly from the Las Palmas family who used it as a second home.

    reviewed