Origins of the Canary Islands
If you’re curious about the unique past of this island, discovering the history of Gran Canaria is a great place to start. From ancient aboriginal tribes to Spanish conquest and global connections, the island’s story is both dramatic and deeply rooted in nature and culture.
The Canary Islands are volcanic in origin, formed millions of years ago by eruptions deep under the Atlantic. Gran Canaria itself emerged around 14 million years ago, making it one of the older islands in the archipelago.
Before the Spanish arrived, the islands were home to the Guanche and Canarii people, indigenous populations believed to have Berber roots from North Africa. They lived in caves, farmed the land, and created a rich spiritual and social culture based on the rhythms of nature.
Their legacy can still be seen today in cave paintings, tools, and the unique architectural remains scattered across the island.
Conquest and colonisation
In the late 15th century, Spain launched a series of military campaigns to conquer the Canary Islands. Gran Canaria resisted fiercely under the leadership of warriors like Doramas and Bentejuí, but eventually fell to the Crown of Castile in 1483.
The conquest brought dramatic change. Christianity replaced indigenous beliefs, Spanish became the official language, and Las Palmas was founded in 1478 as a base for colonisation.
Gran Canaria became a strategic stopover on the route to the Americas, drawing traders, settlers, and explorers.
Despite the violent process, traces of aboriginal culture survive today in names, traditions, and local pride.
Here you’ll find some of the most important archaeological sites to visit in Gran Canaria. Here’s a map to help you explore!
Gran Canaria and the world
As the centuries passed, Gran Canaria grew in importance. Its ports attracted ships from Europe, Africa and the Americas. The island became a crossroads of commerce and culture, where Spanish settlers, African slaves, Latin American influences and local Canarians shaped a unique identity.
The 19th century brought political changes and economic hardship, prompting waves of emigration to Cuba and Venezuela. Families left searching for opportunity, but always carried Gran Canaria in their hearts 💛—many later returned with new traditions, enriching the island’s cultural blend.
Today, that diversity is reflected in music, festivals and food.
In 1927, theProvince of Canary Islandswas split into two provinces: ofSanta Cruz de Tenerifeand Las Palmas.
Then, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria became the capital of the latter, and integrated the islands of Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
Discovering the past in the present: 5 spots you shoudn’t miss
To truly understand Gran Canaria, visit its historic sites. Each visit brings a deeper understanding of the history of Gran Canaria and its people.
- 1. Walk through Vegueta, the old town of Las Palmas, where Christopher Columbus once stayed.
- 2. Explore Museo Canario, home to one of the best collections of aboriginal artefacts.
- 3. Hike to Cueva Pintada in Gáldar, (pdf brochure) a painted cave once part of an ancient village.
Cueva Pintada in Galdar | Image Source: galdar.es
4. Hiking through volcanic calderas and dramatic ravines like Guayadeque is an unforgettable way to see Gran Canaria’s wild side. Don’t miss the chance to visit a traditional cave house and pick up local crafts at casacuevacanaria.com—a true gem tucked into the rock.
5. Vistit sacred mountains like Roque Bentayga, where rituals once took place. These are not just ruins—they’re windows into the lives of people who lived in harmony with the land long before modern tourism arrived.
Travel through history with us
Want to experience Gran Canaria’s rich past in an exciting way? Join one of our guided Can-Am Ryker tours! Our Can-Am Ryker routes are crafted to connect you with the real history of Gran Canaria, far from tourist clichés.
Ride through history as we take you from the coast (Discover the Coast) to the mountains (Discover the Mountains). Combine learning with adventure as our local guides bring stories to life.
For something different, try a quad or buggy tour through volcanic terrain, or take a segway ride along the coast where explorers once sailed. Our tours are the perfect mix of discovery and fun.
Let Tourist Discovery bring the history of Gran Canaria into your adventure! 🌄
Respecting heritage and nature
Gran Canaria is proud of its history—and it’s our shared responsibility to protect it. As you explore, please be mindful of ancient sites and natural landscapes:
- Stay on marked trails
- Don’t touch cave art or stones
- Avoid loud noise or disruption
- Take only photos—leave only footprints
By travelling responsibly, you help preserve these treasures for future generations. 🌱
If you enjoyed this post, feel free to share it with friends and family. It’s a great way to help spread the word about Gran Canaria’s unique history—and support local experiences like ours at Tourist Discovery. We offer guided tours and unforgettable excursions across the island, always with a personal touch.