The Fortress of Ansite, the last bastion of the aborigines in Gran Canaria
In this new VillaGranCanaria article we’ll present to you one of the most significant archaeological sites in Gran Canaria, not only on the island, but in the whole of the Canary Islands: the Fortress of Ansite.
Who said that stones don't talk? Anyone who comes here and listens carefully will be able to tell of the infinite number of colours that emerge from the mountains and the skies.
You’ll also discover the reliefs and lose yourself in the nature, you’ll soon feel small in the face of the immensity of which you’re a part.
What is the Fortress of Ansite on Gran Canaria?
It’s the best example of a fortified settlement of the ancient aboriginal society of Gran Canaria, declared an Asset of Cultural Interest and made up of three rocks: La Fortaleza Grande, La Fortaleza Chica and Titana.
The first inhabitants of the island used it for more than a thousand years as a habitat in caves and houses, as a burial space, a storage place, etc. In fact, the oldest dates of Gran Canaria are found here (4th century).
Of the Fortaleza Grande, the best-known rock of the site, the thing that stands out the most is the tunnel that crosses the mountain and its summit. The dangerous climb to the top is marked by a series of cave engravings and multiple walls erected to make the ascent easier.
The remains of two individuals were recovered from the summit in the 19th century, and there were also a series of stone structures. The excavation of these structures yielded many faunal remains. Furthermore, there was observed a high recurrence of fires.
It’s believed that certain cultural manifestations may have taken place in this area, in particular commensal rituals where the ancestors of the first inhabitants of this area were commemorated.
Around 1483, only a few fortifications remained on Gran Canaria to protect the island from the European conquerors, one of them being La Fortaleza. It was here that the islanders resisted the siege of Pedro de Vera's troops.
Thus, it’s believed that the Canary Island chief Bentejuí, on 29 April 1483, threw himself from the top of the fortress with the cry of 'Atis Tirma', thus avoiding being taken prisoner by the Castilian troops and playing a leading role in one of the most famous chapters of the conquest of the island.
The archaeological wealth of La Fortaleza (habitat, burial, storage, cultural and cave paintings) led to the area being listed as an Asset of Cultural Interest, the highest level of protection for cultural heritage in the Canary Islands.
How to get to the Fortress of Ansite
The fortress is located in the municipality of Santa Lucía de Tirajana in the southeast of the island, an hour's drive from the capital. From Las Palmas de Gran Canaria take the GC-1 motorway and turn off towards Vecindario.
From here, drive in the direction of Santa Lucía and, shortly before reaching the centre of the village, turn left onto the GC-65 road in the direction of Vecindario and follow the signs to La Fortaleza-La Sorrueda. The route is well signposted, so you can't get lost.
What to visit in the area around La Fortaleza
Among the various points of interest near La Fortaleza are the following:
La Fortaleza Interpretation Centre
This is one, if not the most important, of Gran Canaria's main heritage resources. The centre has exhibition resources that allow visitors to learn not only about aspects of the archaeological site of La Fortaleza, but also to understand and interpret the uniqueness of the island's archaeological heritage.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00 (closed on Mondays).
- Address: Hoya del Rábano, 48 - GC-651, KM 1,9 - La Sorrueda, 35280, Santa Lucía de Tirajana
- Phone number: (+34) 928 798 580
- Email: info@lafortaleza.es
- Web: www.lafortaleza.es
La Sorrueda Dam
Both this dam and its palm-fringed surroundings are unique landscapes.
It’s located in the mountainous interior of Gran Canaria, in the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana and covers some 5,800 hectares. It offers hiking enthusiasts an infinite number of routes.
Where to stay to enjoy La Fortaleza in Gran Canaria
If you want to contemplate La Fortaleza de Ansite in all its splendour, there’s no better option than staying in any of the nearby accommodations that VillaGranCanaria has prepared for you.
array(3) { [0]=> array(29) { ["num"]=> string(3) "366" ["createdDate"]=> string(19) "2021-05-05 16:37:14" ["createdByUserNum"]=> string(2) "68" ["updatedDate"]=> string(19) "2021-05-06 10:01:51" ["updatedByUserNum"]=> string(2) "68" ["dragSortOrder"]=> string(2) "46" ["enlace"]=> string(22) "/experiences/guanches/" ["title"]=> string(62) "The Guanches, the aboriginal inhabitants of the Canary Islands" ["content"]=> string(13800) "<p style="text-align:justify;">The Guanches were a people who lived in the Canary Islands until the archipelago was officially conquered by the Castilians in 1496.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Although the ancient Canarians had common roots, each island had its own laws and customs, which led to regular clashes.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">But... Who were they, where did they come from, what language did they speak, what did they believe in? All these questions, and more, will be answered in this article.</p><h2 class="text-2xl">Origin of the Guanches</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">They are the only people who lived in the Macaronesia region, which also includes the archipelagos of Azores, Madeira and Cape Verde, where no evidence of cultures prior to the arrival of Europeans has been found.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">It is estimated that the original inhabitants arrived on the islands around the 5th century BC, so for almost two millennia they lived in isolation, developing their own culture and way of life.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The first indigenous Canarians were Berber tribes who came from North Africa. Although the causes are not clear, the main hypothesis is that it was due to the expansion of other civilisations in the Maghreb (Phoenicians, Punics, Romans, etc.).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">These peoples have been physically classified into two groups: the Cro-Magnoids, with a broad, robust face and smaller body size, and the Mediterranoids, with a thinner, straighter face and larger stature.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">It is known that their arrival caused the extinction of some large island reptiles and mammals, such as the giant lizard <i>Gallotia goliath</i> (which could reach up to a metre or more), the <i>Canariomys bravoi</i> (giant rat of Tenerife) or the <i>Canariomys tamarani</i> (giant rat of Gran Canaria), among others.</p><figure class="image m-1 w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="border my-3" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/01_Aborigen_hombre_1.png"></figure><h2 class="text-2xl">Names of the aborigines of the Canary Islands</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Although they are popularly known as Guanches, it should be borne in mind that this term only refers to the ancient inhabitants of Tenerife. Nowadays, the correct name is aboriginal Canary Islanders, and for each island in particular it is as follows:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">El Hierro (Heró): <i>bimbaches</i></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Fuerteventura (Maxorata) and Lanzarote (Tyterogaka): <i>majos</i></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Gran Canaria (Tamarán): <i>canarios</i></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">La Gomera (Gomara): <i>gomeritas</i></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">La Palma (Benahoare): <i>benahoaritas</i></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Tenerife (Achinech): <i>guanches</i></li></ul><h2 class="text-2xl">Social organisation of the indigenous Canary Islanders</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Early Canarian society was patriarchal and matrilineal, and was categorised into strata defined by wealth, especially in terms of livestock. Each island was subdivided into territories whose king was the <i>guanarteme</i> or <i>mencey</i>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Although the class system was also different on each island, it can be summarised by the categories of nobility and people. Purity of blood among high-ranking nobles was total, and to become a chief you had to prove your purity.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">It is believed that the kings owned most of the livestock, as well as the quarries for the extraction of raw materials (the <a href="https://villagrancanaria.com/blog/canarian-clay-stamps/"><i><strong>pintaderas</strong></i></a> were used for this purpose). To maintain this hierarchy, which depended on the service of others, their children were taught stories defining social inequalities, the origin of which was divine.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Justice was given in the public square or <i>tagoror</i> by a group of notables, and according to early visitors to the islands, was excessively harsh.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Evidence of female infanticide and polyandry has been found on several islands, which has been interpreted as a cultural adaptation to resource scarcity in the form of population control.</p><figure class="image m-1 w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="border my-3" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/adornos_de_los_antiguos_canarios_2.png"></figure><h2 class="text-2xl">Religion of the ancient Canarians</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">The religious beliefs of the aborigines were closely linked to objects and phenomena related to nature. They worshipped the sun (god <i>Magec</i>) and the moon (god <i>Achuguayo</i>) and performed rituals to promote rain and fertile fields (<i>Achamán</i>, god of the sky and supreme god).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Some geographical elements such as mountains and rocks were considered sacred, as they were believed to be close to these gods and allowed contact with them, such as Roque Bentayga in Gran Canaria, Montaña de Tindaya in Fuerteventura, Roque Idafe in La Palma and Teide in Tenerife.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">They also practised mummification, which consisted of removing the viscera from the body, washing it, drying it in the sun and filling it with natural substances to help preserve it. The body was then wrapped in skins and bound with strips of leather.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The rites were conducted by the <i>faycán</i>, a kind of priest-judge, who was assisted in certain celebrations by an institution of holy women called <i>harimaguadas</i>.</p><h2 class="text-2xl">Technological and cultural development of the Guanches</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">With regard to their historical cataloguing, which is based on the technological development of the peoples, the ancient Canary Islanders were Neolithic peoples, as the islands lacked metals due to their volcanic origin.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">However, these aboriginal peoples are characterised by an advanced cultural development, corresponding to a protohistoric cultural horizon and the result of the influence of the aforementioned civilisations.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">There is also evidence of the existence of rock engravings in which alphabetic signs appear, identified as features of a Libyco-Berber script, as well as another form of writing that is difficult to classify, which has been called "Libyco-Canarian".</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The indigenous societies of the archipelago oriented and astronomically aligned some sanctuaries and observation points, shrines, temples and even necropolises. The relationship between the rising and setting of the sun, the moon and some planets and stars with elements of the islands' landscape and with their orographic profile over the ocean allowed them to establish calendars, organise food-producing activities, social practices and their beliefs.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Unlike most ancient cultures that arose around isolated oceanic islands, no archaeological or documentary evidence of seafaring vessels or knowledge of navigation has been found in the Canary Islands.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The chronicles of the first Europeans to arrive on the islands record the fact that the settlers had completely lost knowledge of navigation, so that the different islands were isolated from each other for centuries, developing distinct cultural modes.</p><figure class="image m-1 w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="border my-3" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/02_Aborigen_mujer_1.png"></figure><h2 class="text-2xl">Habitat of the Guanches</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">The ancient Canarians lived mainly in natural caves or volcanic tubes, although they also lived in stone shelters, huts and surface settlements, with evident differences in the type of habitat depending on the island.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">For example, on Lanzarote the dwellings, which formed settlements, were generally made of dry stone and roofed with a false vault, following a construction scheme similar to that of the "deep houses" found in other areas of the Maghreb.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Meanwhile, on Gran Canaria there are both settlements of houses built on the surface, as can be seen in the <a href="https://villagrancanaria.com/experiences/cueva-pintada-galdar/"><strong>Cueva Pintada in Gáldar</strong></a>, as well as cave dwellings, either natural or carved out of the stone. On the other islands, the most common habitat was the natural cave.</p><figure class="image m-1 w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="border my-3" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/kisspng_canary_islands_primary_education_eso_guanches_lomce_5b52b9f5cc5799.936285631532148213837_1.png"></figure><h2 class="text-2xl">Economy and subsistence of the primitive Canarians</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">The aboriginal economy was based mainly on livestock farming, except in Gran Canaria where the development of agriculture was more important (proof of this is the <a href="https://villagrancanaria.com/experiences/cenobio-de-valeron/"><strong>Cenobio de Valerón</strong></a>). Due to the virtual non-existence of mammals native to the Canary Islands, the livestock available to the first islanders were transported from their areas of origin in North Africa and adapted to the environmental characteristics of the islands.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">These consisted mainly of goats and a type of sheep with smooth skin and no wool, similar to the type of sheep that inhabited North Africa for millennia and whose descendants now live in the Sahel area.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The goat and sheep played a fundamental role in subsistence, and their meat, milk and butter were used, as well as their skins for clothing, their bones for an important bone industry, and their antlers.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Agriculture was basically cereal-based, with wheat and barley species being grown, as well as peas and other legumes. One of the main uses of cereals was the production of the traditional gofio.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Subsistence in the archipelago was completed with the gathering of wild plant species; hunting animals, mainly birds and large reptiles; fishing and shellfishing using rudimentary methods, etc.</p><h2 class="text-2xl">Guanches survivors and their descendants</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">A recent <a href="https://www.ull.es/portal/noticias/2019/rosa-fregel-en-busca-adn-antiguo/"><strong>study</strong></a> found that "the overall Canary Islands population has an aboriginal ancestry through the maternal line of 55.9%, while the European and sub-Saharan African components are 39.8% and 4.3%, respectively".</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">If the calculation is done separately for each island, the results are very different. The highest values of indigenous ancestry are found in La Gomera (55.5%) and La Palma (41.0%), while the lowest are in Tenerife (22.0%) and El Hierro (0.0%).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Whether they were clichés or legends of the time, the truth is that the Guanches were not so different from the Canary Islanders of today.</p><figure class="image m-1 w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="border my-3" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/kisspng_conquest_of_the_canary_islands_guanches_guanartema_canarias_5b2a37af72f915.7861613415294934234709_1.png"></figure><h2 class="text-2xl">Sources</h2><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www3.gobiernodecanarias.org/medusa/ecoblog/asanramf/files/2014/10/Historia-de-Canarias.pdf"><strong>Gobierno de Canarias</strong></a></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.holaislascanarias.com/experiencias/la-historia-de-los-aborigenes-canarios/"><strong>Hola Islas Canarias</strong></a></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abor%C3%ADgenes_canarios"><strong>Wikipedia</strong></a></li></ul>" ["titulo_de_pagina"]=> string(57) "▷ The Guanches of the Canary Islands - VillaGranCanaria" ["metatag_descripcion"]=> string(160) "Find out here ⬆️ all about the Guanches of the Canary Islands. ✅ This aboriginal people originating from North Africa left a deep mark on the archipelago!" 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Discover the most traditional aspects of Canarian culture with Villa Gran Canaria." 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In fact, it can be compared to (on a smaller scale, of course) the Altamira Cave or the Atapuerca Site.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Canarian aborigines are believed to have arrived in the archipelago around the 5th century BC, so for almost two millennia the first settlers lived in isolation on the islands, creating their own culture and lifestyle adapted to the wild, volcanic environment.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Although most of them lived in caves, in the north of Gran Canaria there are remains of an ancient settlement whose economy was based on hunting, livestock and agriculture, sectors which they used to the maximum for their survival.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Undoubtedly, the ancient settlers are an example of development in an extreme habitat that today can be seen at first hand thanks to the important legacy and archaeological trace that they have left throughout history in magical places like this one.</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">What is the Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park in Gáldar?</h2><figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fRoioRSDW9Q"><div style="position: relative; padding-bottom: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fRoioRSDW9Q" style="position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 100%; top: 0; left: 0;" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div></div></figure><p style="text-align:justify;">The Cueva Pintada is, together with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://villagrancanaria.com/experiences/cenobio-de-valeron/"><strong>Cenobio de Valerón</strong></a>, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Canary Islands. It’s located in Gran Canaria, specifically in the northern municipality of Gáldar, which was one of the two <i>guanartematos</i> or kingdoms into which the island of <i>Tamarán</i> was divided, together with Telde.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In recent years it has become a must-see for anyone who wants to learn about the history of the Canary Islands first-hand, as it’s a complex made up of a hamlet surrounding a cavern carved out of the rock.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">To get there, you first have to cross a walkway over the ruins of an ancient settlement where you can see how the ancient dwellings of the aborigines were organised and laid out.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Once inside the cave, you can see the geometric motifs that decorate the walls, clear evidence of the artistic representations of the time, which, thanks to the glass dome that protects the entire vault, can be seen up close.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The fact is that to enter the past through the cave paintings is an experience that’s not easily forgotten: walking in front of authentic archaeological discoveries and not a recreation is astonishing.</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">How to get to the archaeological site Cueva Pintada de Gáldar</h2><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">By private vehicle</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">To get to this museum and archaeological park located in the municipality of Gáldar, take the GC-2, the motorway that runs parallel to the north coast of the island, until you reach exit 25.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Then, at the roundabout, turn right towards the village of Gáldar and take the first street on the left (Calle Maninidra).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">As this village is full of intricate streets, it’s recommended to continue along this street until the end of it and leave your car in the car park on the left hand side.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Then just walk for about 4 minutes along Guaires Street to the end, turn right into Andamana Street, then left into Facaracas Street and finally right into Bentejuí Street.</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">By public transport</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Global, the bus company of Gran Canaria (called guaguas in the archipelago) connects the capital of the island with the village of Gáldar through <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.guaguasglobal.com/pdflineas/linea105.pdf"><strong>line 105</strong></a>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The route ends at the Gáldar Bus Station, from where you have to walk to the archaeological site for about 9 minutes.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Just follow the main road, connect with Capitán Quesada Street until the end, where you turn left into Plaza de Santiago square (the end point of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://villagrancanaria.com/experiences/way-saint-james-gran-canaria/"><strong>Way of Saint James in Gran Canaria</strong></a>) and finish a few metres along Bentejuí Street.</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Useful information for visiting the Painted Cave of Gáldar</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Some important facts about this archaeological site on Gran Canaria are as follows.</p><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/Cueva_Pintada_en_Galdar_1.jpg"></figure><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Distances and times</h3><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Las Palmas de Gran Canaria:</strong> 22 km (30 minutes)</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Maspalomas:</strong> 77 km (1 hour)</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Puerto de Mogán:</strong> 98 km (1 hour and 20 minutes)</li></ul><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Opening hours</h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>October to May</strong></p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00 h. (last guided tour at 16:30).</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Sundays and public holidays from 11:00 to 18:00 h. (last guided tour at 16:30 p.m.).</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>June to September</strong></p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 to 19:30 h. (last guided tour at 18:00).</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Sundays and public holidays from 11:00 to 19:00 h. (last guided tour at 17:30).</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;">The museum and archaeological park are open until half an hour before closing time (although it’s not possible to visit the entire museum during this time).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Closed every Monday of the year; 1, 5 and 6 January; 1 May; 24, 25 and 31 December.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>IMPORTANT:</strong> for conservation reasons, seating is limited and tickets are available until full.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>COVID-19:</strong> please consult the new visiting conditions on the official website.</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Price</h3><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>General ticket:</strong> €6.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Reduced ticket:</strong> €3 (over 65s, pensioners and students up to 23 years of age).</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Group and large family tickets:</strong> €4 (14 or more people and members of large families).</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Free admission:</strong> children under 18, school groups, unemployed, people with disabilities and accompanying persons, ICOM card holders, teachers, accredited guides and professional visitors.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Free admission days:</strong> every Sunday throughout the year, plus 18 April, 18 and 30 May, 25 and 26 July and 27 September, unless they’re compulsory closure days.</li></ul><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/Cueva_Pintada_1.jpg"></figure><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Address</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Calle Audiencia, 2, 35460, Gáldar, Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, España.</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Phone</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">(+34) 928 895 746</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Email</h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="mailto:cuevapintada@grancanaria.com"><strong>cuevapintada@grancanaria.com</strong></a></p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Web</h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://www.cuevapintada.com/"><strong>http://www.cuevapintada.com/</strong></a></p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Cueva Pintada de Gáldar Sources</h2><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.grancanaria.com/turismo/en/culture/native-culture/cueva-pintada-museum/"><strong>Gran Canaria Tourism Board</strong></a></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hellocanaryislands.com/museums-and-places-interest/gran-canaria/cueva-pintada/"><strong>Hello Canary Islands</strong></a></li></ul>" ["titulo_de_pagina"]=> string(62) "Cueva Pintada de Gáldar 【 2024 GUIDE 】 - VillaGranCanaria" ["metatag_descripcion"]=> string(140) "Discover here ⬆️ all about the Cueva Pintada de Gáldar. ✅ Get to know one of the most important archaeological sites in Gran Canaria!" 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From the bustling Playa del Inglés to the more secluded Maspalomas, there are plenty of options to relax, sunbathe, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Water sports enthusiasts can also indulge in activities like surfing, windsurfing, and diving in popular spots such as Las Canteras and Puerto de Mogán.</p><p> </p><p>Aside from its beautiful coastline, Gran Canaria is renowned for its diverse landscapes. The island is home to stunning natural wonders like the dramatic cliffs of Puerto de Mogán, the rugged mountains of Roque Nublo, and the lush forests of Doramas Rural Park. Hiking and biking trails are abundant, allowing visitors to explore the island's unique flora and fauna.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Culture and history</strong> enthusiasts will be fascinated by Gran Canaria's rich heritage. The capital city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria boasts historical sites like the grand <strong>Cathedral of Santa Ana</strong> and the <i><strong>Casa de Colón</strong></i>, a museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus. The picturesque towns of Teror and Arucas are also worth a visit, with their charming colonial architecture and scenic plazas.</p><p> </p><p>For those seeking <strong>entertainment and nightlife</strong>, Gran Canaria doesn't disappoint. The island is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in popular areas like Playa del Inglés and Puerto Rico. Visitors can enjoy a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues, ensuring there is always something happening after the sun goes down.</p><p> </p><p>In summary, Gran Canaria offers a diverse range of activities and sights to satisfy all types of travelers. From its stunning beaches to its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone to enjoy on this beautiful island.</p><p> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">The weather in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Did you know that the days in Gran Canaria are long and sunny with mild temperatures and few variations? In fact, Gran Canaria is one of the regions in Europe with <strong>more hours of sunlight</strong> – over 3,000.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Its geographical location also favours long days that are full of sunlight all year round. In winter, the sun rises at 7:30am and sets at 6:30pm; in summer it’s sunrise at 7:00am and sunset at 8:30pm.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Accommodation options in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Have you already decided that you want to spend your next holiday on the beautiful island of Gran Canaria and you need a holiday rental? Gran Canaria is an island with a huge offer of accommodation of all kinds and for all tastes.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Villas</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">A villa is probably the best option for those looking for maximum privacy. At VillaGranCanaria we are experts in renting villas of all types:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Villas with private pool:</strong> the best option to enjoy a good bath without sharing space with other people.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Luxury villas:</strong> if you are looking to treat yourself, the best is a deluxe villa with all kinds of comforts and magnificent views.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Beach villas:</strong> look no further if you want to wake up to the gentle sea breeze or be mesmerised by the coastal sunsets.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Cheap villas:</strong> the best high quality accommodation at an affordable price and with the greatest possible comfort.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Group villas:</strong> the ultimate choice for families with children or groups of friends looking for peace and quiet and a higher degree of privacy.</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Apartments</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Those who prefer to stay in a holiday flat are generally looking to spend more time outside than inside. Even so, at VillaGranCanaria we have great alternatives:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Beach apartments:</strong> a flat just a few metres from the sea is the best choice for ocean addicts.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>City apartments:</strong> urbanites are in luck because an urban flat is the best way to discover the city's corners.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Luxury apartments:</strong> if you prefer to live large, a deluxe flat is the perfect option for you.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Cheap apartments:</strong> if you prefer a cheap flat with the best value for money on the market... stop looking!</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Bungalows</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">One of the most popular options on the market are bungalows. Fortunately, at VillaGranCanaria we have the best bungalows on the island at your disposal:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Beach bungalows:</strong> Imagine spending a day on the sand and just a few steps from your bungalow... The best possible location!</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Luxury bungalows:</strong> a deluxe bungalow is a great option to enjoy the highest comfort in a unique accommodation.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Cheap bungalows:</strong> the budget bungalows are ideal for sharing, always keeping in mind the best value for money.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Bungalows with private pool:</strong> if you prefer not to leave the bungalow and enjoy the pool without "neighbours"... This is your option!</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Country houses</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Nature lovers are in luck because this island has spectacular natural landscapes. Discover them by staying in the rural houses of VillaGranCanaria:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Luxury country houses:</strong> the ideal option to enjoy nature to the maximum with the best comforts in a unique accommodation with incredible views.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Family country houses:</strong> the alternative for families who want to enjoy the interior of Gran Canaria doing activities with their children.</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Travel information for your holiday rentals on Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">If you're thinking of a holiday rental in Gran Canaria, mark your calendar because this beautiful island is more than just sun, beach and spectacular scenery. Not for nothing is it known as the miniature continent.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Southern Gran Canaria: idyllic beaches surrounded by tradition</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Being one of the most important tourist destinations in Spain, it is not surprising that most of the tourists who decide to book their holidays in Gran Canaria do so attracted by its dream beaches. And the closest places to enjoy the island's coastline to the full are Salobre Golf, Maspalomas, Meloneras or Pasito Blanco, among others.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Northern Gran Canaria: extraordinary landscapes of cliffs and volcanoes</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">However, more and more people are visiting this destination for rural tourism, hiking, water sports or cycling, and to discover fascinating places such as Roque Nublo, Roque Bentayga or Pico de las Nieves. Be sure to discover charming villages such as Tejeda, San Mateo, Teror, Arucas, Gáldar and Agaete, among others.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: the best cultural, commercial and leisure offer on the island</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The island's capital, a cosmopolitan city open to the sea, is Gran Canaria's main cultural, commercial and leisure attraction. Here you will find everything: shopping centres, museums, restaurants, the kilometre-long and impressive Las Canteras beach, the majestic Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, the historic Cathedral of Santa Ana... the list goes on and on!</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">How to get to your holiday rental in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">The best way to travel to Gran Canaria is by air to the Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), which is located around the middle of the east coast of the island. It is situated more or less at the same distance (about 25 kilometres) from the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and the southern part, a true sunny paradise.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">No matter the location of your Gran Canaria holiday home, it will likely be accessible by transportation from the airport. Buses, coaches and taxis are all available for you to bring you to your destination. Rental cars are also available at the airport, which ensure a quicker and more comfortable journey.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Gran Canaria and its gastronomy</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">The local cuisine of the Canary Islands comprises a variety of fresh vegetables and a mix of seafood and meat. This gastronomy is influenced by many cultures, most prevalently Spanish, North African, Latin American and even historical aboriginal themes also influence the vibrant local dishes.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">We encourage you to choose from the large variety of traditional restaurants called bochinches or guachinches throughout the island if a true Canarian culinary experience is what you are after. Nevertheless, there are plenty of restaurants where international gastronomy can be found.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">What to do in Gran Canaria with children</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">For a different and fun family holiday, there is nothing better than a visit to Gran Canaria. The island has everything the little ones need to have a great time: water parks, theme parks, amusement parks, outdoor activities, zoos, aquariums and the chance to live unforgettable experiences and adventures in places where fun for young and old is always guaranteed.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Water parks</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Although all the water parks are ideal for having a great time, spending a day at Aqualand Maspalomas or Lago Taurito (100% salt water) is an unforgettable experience not to be missed if you are travelling to Gran Canaria with children.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Theme parks</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Children always have a great time at theme parks. It's a safe bet. And in Gran Canaria there are two of the best: Sioux City Park (where they will feel like a western sheriff) and GrancAventura (a different adventure park...).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Amusement parks</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The classic amusement parks are also a great attraction for children. Here you will find two spectacular ones: Angry Birds Activity Park (for action-packed fun) and Holidayworld Maspalomas (with countless attractions, bowling, escape room, karaoke...).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Zoos and aquariums</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Gran Canaria also has zoos and aquariums where you can discover all kinds of exotic animals up close: Palmitos Park (with a large number of birds, plants, reptiles, mammals...) and Poema del Mar (with three well-differentiated areas and thousands of marine species).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Practising sports in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Gran Canaria is famous for its magnificent beaches of fine sand and crystal-clear waters, but also offers much more than sun and sand. Its lush forests, mountains, trails, ravines, beaches, reefs and clean skies are some of the natural spaces in Gran Canaria that invite you to do active tourism, without forgetting relaxation, fun and adventure. Some of the most practiced sports on the island are:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Golf</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Gran Canaria provides fully equipped infrastructures and top-class courses adapted for all handicaps designed by world champions and reputed architects like Salobre Golf. The climate here means you can enjoy golf all year round to focus on your game and disconnect from it all. And after a few swings, there’s practically no better plan than to spend a while relaxing on the beach, for professionals and amateurs alike.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Cycling</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Gran Canaria has a huge variety of ideal routes for road cycling, with paved tracks and roads with slopes and gradients that cross volcanic passes posing a great challenge for cyclists of all levels. The unchanging temperatures throughout the year and the low rainfall enable you to go cycling every day of the year.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Water sports</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The sea around the island allows for many water sports to be practiced, like the following ones:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Surfing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Windsurfing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Kitesurfing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Bodyboarding</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Stand up paddle</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Scuba diving</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Snorkeling</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Sailing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Parasailing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Kayaking</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Fishing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Jet skiing</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Mountain sports</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Of course, apart from sea sports there are lots of mountain sports you can do on the island:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Hiking</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Trail running</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Climbing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Mountain biking</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Trekking</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Orienteering</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Canyoning</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Paragliding</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Museums in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Theatre, dance, concerts and plastic arts go hand in hand in the island's cultural agenda.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">1. Museo Néstor</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">In the Museo Néstor, named after the local artist Néstor de la Torre, you can see his portraits and most important works. It is located in the Pueblo Canario, in the capital of Gran Canaria.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">2. Casa de Colón</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The Casa de Colón, located in the Vegueta district of the historic quarter of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is the best option for discovering the island's relationship with the American continent and what oceanic voyages were like.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">3. CAAM</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Nearby, the Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno (CAAM or Atlantic Centre of Modern Art) is the archipelago's leading contemporary art museum. Highly recommended for those looking for a different kind of museum.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">4. Museo Canario</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">What were the ancient Canarians like and how did they live? The answer to these and many more questions can be found at the Museo Canario in Las Palmas. Its large collection of aboriginal mummies will leave you speechless.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">5. Museo Elder</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The Elder Museum of Science and Technology has one rule that everyone who enters the museum must obey: it is strictly forbidden not to touch. Young and old alike will have a great time in a 100% interactive museum.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Nightlife in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">If nightlife is your thing, Gran Canaria is the place to go, with a vibrant and fun atmosphere throughout the cities on the island. Choose from a range of pubs, bars, clubs and discos, in cities like Las Palmas, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas and Meloneras.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In fact, in certain areas the island seems to never sleep, and parties deep into the night. If you are looking for a quieter atmosphere, skip the clubs and check out the numerous stylish bars, cafés and casinos throughout the cities on the island.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">What to see in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">On an island that offers as much to the visitor as Gran Canaria, you should not miss the most attractive places on the island:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">1. Maspalomas Dunes</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Located on the south coast of the island, the dunes of Maspalomas were formed from ocean sand during the Ice Age and are now a nature reserve.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">2. Roque Nublo</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The Roque Nublo, located in Tejeda and 67 metres high, was formed by a volcanic eruption millions of years ago and was used by the ancient Canarians for rituals.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">3. Las Canteras Beach</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">This urban beach is one of the best in Gran Canaria. It is almost 4 kilometres long and is protected by La Barra, a rock formation with abundant marine life.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">4. Vegueta</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">With its narrow cobbled streets, this old part of Las Palmas transports visitors back to the 15th century, with beautiful buildings, galleries and museums steeped in history.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">5. Puerto de Mogán</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The canals that link the marina with the fishing port gave the town its name of Little Venice. It is a place to enjoy fresh fish on a daily basis.</p>" ["experiences_heading"]=> string(31) "Top Experiences in Gran Canaria" ["experiences"]=> string(13) " 362 357 308 " ["faq"]=> string(381) "[{"question":"157"},{"question":"158"},{"question":"159"},{"question":"160"},{"question":"161"},{"question":"162"},{"question":"163"},{"question":"164"},{"question":"165"},{"question":"166"},{"question":"167"},{"question":"168"},{"question":"169"},{"question":"170"},{"question":"171"},{"question":"172"},{"question":"173"},{"question":"174"},{"question":"175"},{"question":"176"}]" ["featured_links_heading"]=> string(0) "" ["faq_heading"]=> string(64) "Frequently asked questions about holiday rentals in Gran Canaria" ["featured_links_heading_2"]=> string(0) "" ["admin_only_section"]=> string(1) "0" ["autosaved"]=> string(1) "0" ["builder"]=> string(0) "" ["controlador"]=> string(0) "" ["precontrolador"]=> string(0) "" ["tableName"]=> string(6) "cities" ["image"]=> array(1) { [0]=> array(13) { ["num"]=> string(4) "1025" ["order"]=> string(10) "1582050855" ["tableName"]=> string(6) "cities" ["fieldName"]=> string(5) "image" ["recordNum"]=> string(1) "1" ["filePath"]=> string(94) "/var/www/vhosts/villagrancanaria.plandeweb.com/httpdocs/cms/uploads/shutterstock_373706371.jpg" ["urlPath"]=> string(39) "/cms/uploads/shutterstock_373706371.jpg" ["info1"]=> string(0) "" ["info2"]=> string(0) "" ["info3"]=> string(0) "" ["info4"]=> string(0) "" ["info5"]=> string(0) "" ["alt"]=> string(28) "holiday rentals gran canaria" } } ["experience_banner_images"]=> array(2) { [0]=> array(13) { ["num"]=> string(4) "1051" ["order"]=> string(10) "1584012649" ["tableName"]=> string(6) "cities" ["fieldName"]=> string(24) "experience_banner_images" ["recordNum"]=> string(1) "1" ["filePath"]=> string(105) "/var/www/vhosts/villagrancanaria.plandeweb.com/httpdocs/cms/uploads/tom_keighley_9dnY4x0MKVY_unsplash.jpg" ["urlPath"]=> string(50) "/cms/uploads/tom_keighley_9dnY4x0MKVY_unsplash.jpg" ["info1"]=> string(0) "" ["info2"]=> string(0) "" ["info3"]=> string(0) "" ["info4"]=> string(0) "" ["info5"]=> string(0) "" ["alt"]=> string(31) "gran canaria casas vacacionales" } [1]=> array(13) { ["num"]=> string(5) "20146" ["order"]=> string(10) "1601386792" ["tableName"]=> string(6) "cities" ["fieldName"]=> string(24) "experience_banner_images" ["recordNum"]=> string(1) "1" ["filePath"]=> string(103) "/var/www/vhosts/villagrancanaria.plandeweb.com/httpdocs/cms/uploads//cms/uploads/2018/03/maspalomas.jpg" ["urlPath"]=> string(35) "/cms/uploads/2018/03/maspalomas.jpg" ["info1"]=> string(0) "" ["info2"]=> string(0) "" ["info3"]=> string(0) "" ["info4"]=> string(0) "" ["info5"]=> string(0) "" ["alt"]=> string(23) "vacaciones gran canaria" } } ["featured_links"]=> array(0) { } ["featured_links_2"]=> array(0) { } ["faq_bd"]=> array(20) { [0]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "157" } [1]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "158" } [2]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "159" } [3]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "160" } [4]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "161" } [5]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "162" } [6]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "163" } [7]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "164" } [8]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "165" } [9]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "166" } [10]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "167" } [11]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "168" } [12]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "169" } [13]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "170" } [14]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "171" } [15]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "172" } [16]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "173" } [17]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "174" } [18]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "175" } [19]=> array(1) { ["question"]=> string(3) "176" } } ["breadcrumbField"]=> string(0) "" ["mainFieldBreadcrumb"]=> string(12) "Gran Canaria" } } ["related_experiences_bd"]=> array(3) { [0]=> array(28) { ["num"]=> string(3) "359" ["createdDate"]=> string(19) "2021-02-22 14:42:23" ["createdByUserNum"]=> string(2) "68" ["updatedDate"]=> string(19) "2023-10-06 10:54:12" ["updatedByUserNum"]=> string(3) "440" ["dragSortOrder"]=> string(2) "39" ["enlace"]=> string(32) "/experiences/cenobio-de-valeron/" ["title"]=> string(67) "Cenobio de Valerón, the Granary of the Ancient Canarian Aborigines" ["content"]=> string(7368) "<p style="text-align:justify;">The Cenobio de Valerón is clear proof of the enormous cultural development that Gran Canaria achieved during the pre-Hispanic period. In fact, on the island you can visit ancient archaeological sites and see cave paintings and burial mounds built on lava.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">One of these magical places is to be found in the north of Gran Canaria, in caves that are, in essence, a collective granary of enormous dimensions that the ancient aborigines created to store cereal, the real basis of their diet, as can be seen in one of the culinary delights: gofio.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">This is a set of more than 300 hollows drilled more than 800 years ago by stone peaks in the soft rock, connected to each other at different levels of a high escarpment of the Montaña del Gallego mountain.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">It’s an authentic work of prehistoric engineering worthy of a visit because of its heritage and cultural value, not only for the island but for the whole of the Canary Islands. In addition, the strategic nature of the site made it a real natural fortress, as it was unnoticed from the outside due to its location on an almost vertical mountain wall.</p><p> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">What is a cenobio in Gran Canaria?</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">According to the Diccionario de la lengua española (Dictionary of the Spanish language) of the Real Academia Española (Royal Spanish Academy), the word <a href="https://dle.rae.es/cenobio?m=form"><i><strong>cenobio</strong></i></a> comes from the late Latin <i>coenobĭum</i>, and this from the Bizantine Greek κοινόβιον <i>koinóbion</i>; literally 'life in common', thus monastery.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">However, in Gran Canaria this term is linked to a false idea that has been completely discarded today, according to which the silos or chambers of the site were like the rooms of a convent where the young women of the noble class were locked up until they married, under the care of the <i>harimaguadas</i> or priestesses of great social and religious influence.</p><p> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">How to get to the Cenobio de Valerón archaeological site</h2><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/Cenobio_de_Valeron_en_Gran_Canaria_1.png"></figure><p style="text-align:justify;">This old grain store is located in the north of Gran Canaria, in the municipality of Santa María de Guía.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Access to the site can be made in either direction from the GC-2 motorway, at exit number 20, which is clearly signposted on the road signs.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Then take the GC-291 and in less than five minutes we will reach the site simply by following the signs.</p><p> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Useful information</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Some important facts about this archaeological site on Gran Canaria are as follows.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Distances and times</h3><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Las Palmas de Gran Canaria:</strong> 22 km (30 minutes)</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Maspalomas:</strong> 77 km (1 hour)</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Puerto de Mogán:</strong> 98 km (1 hour and 20 minutes)</li></ul><p> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Opening hours</h3><p><strong>WINTER HOURS</strong> (October - March)<br>Tuesday to Sunday: 10.00 - 17.00h</p><p><br><strong>SUMMER OPENING HOURS</strong> (April - September)<br>Tuesday to Sunday: 10.00 - 18.00h<br>Closed every Monday and on 1, 5 and 6 January, 1 May, 24, 25 and 31 December.</p><p> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Price</h3><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>General price:</strong> 3 €.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Reduced price*:</strong> 2 € (school groups, except local school; groups of over 10 people with prior appointment; children between the ages of 10 and 14; student card holders; and people over 65 years old.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Special free entry</strong> for educational groups from the municipality with prior appointment; tourist guides and teachers accompanying groups; and children under 10; people with functional diversity.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Combo 5 €</strong> including a visit to Maipés de Agaete included.</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>*</strong>To qualify for the reduced fee, visitors must show all the appropriate documentation.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Guided tours, activities and workshops are available to school groups or private groups of over 10 individuals.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Guided tours have to be requested by prior appointment.</p><p> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Address</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Cuesta de Silva, s/n, 35450, Santa María de Guía, Las Palmas, España</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Phone</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">(+34) 618 607 896</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Email</h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="mailto:museosyarqueologia@arqueocanaria.com">museosyarqueologia@arqueocanaria.com</a></p><p> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Web</h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="http://www.arqueologiacanaria.com/Arqueologia_Canaria/Cenobio_de_Valeron.html">http://www.arqueologiacanaria.com/Arqueologia_Canaria/Cenobio_de_Valeron.html</a></p><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/Cenobio_de_Valeron_en_Canarias_1.jpeg"></figure><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Cenobio de Valerón Sources</h2><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www3.gobiernodecanarias.org/medusa/wiki/index.php?title=Cenobio_de_Valer%C3%B3n"><strong>Canary Islands Government</strong></a></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.grancanaria.com/turismo/en/culture/archaeological-sites/cenobio-de-valeron/"><strong>Gran Canaria Tourism Board</strong></a></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.hellocanaryislands.com/museums-and-places-interest/gran-canaria/cenobio-de-valeron/"><strong>Hello Canary Islands</strong></a></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caves_of_Valeron"><strong>Wikipedia</strong></a></li></ul>" ["titulo_de_pagina"]=> string(65) "▷ Cenobio de Valerón 【 COMPLETE GUIDE 】 - VillaGranCanaria" ["metatag_descripcion"]=> string(144) "Discover here ⬆️ everything about the Cenobio de Valerón. ✅ ¡Get to know one of the most important archaeological sites of Gran Canaria!" ["experience_type"]=> string(1) "3" ["short_description"]=> string(65) "Enjoy one of the most important aboriginal sites of Gran Canaria." ["city"]=> string(3) "100" ["related_experiences"]=> string(13) " 360 331 319 " ["visible"]=> string(1) "1" ["draft"]=> string(1) "0" ["admin_only_section"]=> string(1) "0" ["autosaved"]=> string(1) "0" ["builder"]=> string(0) "" ["controlador"]=> string(0) "" ["precontrolador"]=> string(0) "" ["tableName"]=> string(11) "experiences" ["image"]=> array(1) { [0]=> array(13) { ["num"]=> string(5) "59736" ["order"]=> string(10) "1614004965" ["tableName"]=> string(11) "experiences" ["fieldName"]=> string(5) "image" ["recordNum"]=> string(3) "359" ["filePath"]=> string(80) "/var/www/vhosts/villagrancanaria.com/httpdocs/cms/uploads/Cenobio_de_Valeron.jpg" ["urlPath"]=> string(35) "/cms/uploads/Cenobio_de_Valeron.jpg" ["info1"]=> string(0) "" ["info2"]=> string(0) "" ["info3"]=> string(0) "" ["info4"]=> string(0) "" ["info5"]=> string(0) "" ["alt"]=> string(18) "cenobio de valeron" } } ["main_image"]=> array(0) { } ["gallery"]=> array(0) { } ["breadcrumbField"]=> string(0) "" ["mainFieldBreadcrumb"]=> string(67) "Cenobio de Valerón, the Granary of the Ancient Canarian Aborigines" } [1]=> array(28) { ["num"]=> string(3) "331" ["createdDate"]=> string(19) "2020-06-02 14:52:38" ["createdByUserNum"]=> string(1) "1" ["updatedDate"]=> string(19) "2023-12-07 09:11:33" ["updatedByUserNum"]=> string(4) "1340" ["dragSortOrder"]=> string(2) "22" ["enlace"]=> string(32) "/experiences/canarian-wrestling/" ["title"]=> string(28) "All about Canarian Wrestling" ["content"]=> string(13384) "A sport typical of the Canary Islands, the Canarian Wrestling has been kept alive over the centuries thanks to oral transmission. The ancient Canarians used wrestling to perform religious rituals which, nowadays, are performed exclusively for sporting purposes and in places specifically designed for it.<br /><br /> Thanks to the geographical location of the islands, it has contributed to the influence of different peoples who, in one way or another, have left their mark on the islands.<br /><br /> One example of this influence is the different games played on the archipelago, which have become a cultural heritage that has been maintained by the ancient inhabitants of the islands thanks largely to written sources. Some examples are the juego del palo (literally, game of stick), salto del pastor (literally shepherd's jump), etc.<br /><br /> However, among all these games, today we come to talk about Canarian Wrestling, how it arose, how it evolved or how its rules are so that you can better understand everything about the vernacular sport.<br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">What is Canarian Wrestling?</h2><br /> Canarian Wrestling is the most traditional sport on the islands. The chronicles of the conquest echoed the Canarian Wrestling by the islanders, which they passed on from generation to generation.<br /><br /> According to these chronicles, the fights were carried out to resolve conflicts over the owning of land or other issues. Nobility, respect and team spirit are elements that should always prevail in this type of practice.<br /><br /> Likewise, Canarian Wrestling has always been regarded as a sport for large and rough men. However, to be a wrestler you do not need to meet these requirements, it rewards agility more than strength in this sport, especially to see what the opponent's weaknesses are and use them against him to knock him down.<br /><br /> The fights takes place in rounds that bring together the opponents of two teams that are eliminated as they lose in the fights.<br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-10253" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/2020/06/Canarian-wrestling-history.png" alt="canarian wrestling history" width="560" height="290" /></p><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">History of Canarian Wrestling</h2><br /> The first Canarian fighting techniques were recorded for the first time in the year 1420, and the referees who were known as "men of honour" were also appointed.<br /><br /> The origin of this practice has provoked a great debate over the years. The most widespread theory about the origins of Canarian Wrestling is that it comes from North Africa, via the Berbers.<br /><br /> A fact in favour of this theory is that there are a series of wrestlings exactly like the Canarian Wrestling in North Africa and that they fully coincide with the fights practiced in the past. Experts in the field divide the Canarian Wrestling into three periods.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Historical stage</h3><br /> The most primitive wrestling is that of the 15th century which is characterized by:<br /><ul class='bullet'><br /><li>Techniques similar to the current ones.</li><br /><li>The development of the challenges, the honorability of the wrestling and the way of grabbing.</li><br /><li>Every confrontation is a running fight.</li><br /><li>They were smeared in lard to make it difficult for the opponent to grip.</li><br /><li>The figure of the "man of honor" begins to gain importance.</li><br /></ul><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Folkloric stage</h3><br /> We take a leap forward to the 19th century when the Canarian Wrestling begins establishing in Canarian culture, considering it as another example of folklore and tradition.<br /><br /> This is the time when wrestling began to develop for all the peoples of the islands, overcoming the obstacles imposed on them by the bourgeoisie of the time, who branded the Canarian Wrestling as something despicable, vulgar and anachronistic.<br /><ul class='bullet'><br /><li>There were no written rules, the rules were established before the fight.</li><br /><li>The teams were made according to villages or regions, and there were no fixed teams or fighters in a team.</li><br /><li>The fights took place at festivals or events of great importance in the villages.</li><br /><li>Different forms of grip between islands. For example, in Tenerife they fought hand down and in Gran Canaria they fought hand in.</li><br /></ul><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Institutional stage</h3><br /> Canarian Wrestling evolved to a sport. In the 1940's, the Canarian Wrestling Federation was created, with provincial headquarters, totally dependent on the Spanish Wrestling Federation.<br /><br /> In 1947 the first two independent provincial federations were created; one on the island of Gran Canaria and the other on Tenerife.<br /><ul class='bullet'><br /><li>Los comisionados dieron paso a los árbitros.</li><br /><li>Serán 12 los luchadores que habrá por equipo.</li><br /><li>El tipo de agarrada de lucha canaria se establece a mano abajo en todas las islas.</li><br /><li>Las luchadas se desarrollarán entre equipos federados, formándose competiciones reguladas como las insulares, provinciales y regionales.</li><br /><li>The commissioners gave way to the referees.</li><br /><li>12 wrestlers per team.</li><br /><li>The type of Canarian Wrestling grip is set down by hand on all the islands.</li><br /><li>Fights between federated teams, with regulated competitions such as island, provincial and regional.</li><br /><li>Canarian Wrestling is today a very widespread sport, with an independent Canarian Federation, based on each of the islands and with unique rules.</li><br /></ul><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-10256" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/2020/06/Canarian-wrestling-rules.jpg" alt="canarian wrestling rules" width="643" height="362" /></p><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Rules of Canarian Wrestling</h2><br /> The rules that began to be used nowadays appeared in 1870, but it was not until 1940 that the federations were formed, unifying the regulations for the entire archipelago.<br /><br /> However, over the years these rules have undergone various modifications until they became what they are today.<br /><ul class='bullet'><br /><li>The duration of the fight is 3 minutes. In the all against all mode, the duration is 90 minutes.</li><br /><li>The only person who can interrupt the fight is the referee, the time in which the fight is stopped being discounted. During this time, no wrestler can leave the ground, whoever does so will be considered a loser.</li><br /><li>The fall is valid when one of the two wrestlers touches the sand with any part of the body other than his feet.</li><br /><li>In Canarian wrestling, if the fall is simultaneous, the referee may whistle "revolt" (fight again).</li><br /><li>The fall that occurs when one wrestler takes the other by the hand and forces him to touch the ground is not valid.</li><br /><li>The fall is valid when the wrestler falls on the inside of the line, also being valid if he or she touches the outside of the line. However, if the first wrestler falls outside the line, the line is broken.</li><br /></ul><br /> Within the rules we can also distinguish erroneous positions such as the following:<br /><ul class='bullet'><br /><li>Not positioning well at the start of the grab.</li><br /><li>Having the hands out at the moment of immobilization.</li><br /><li>The grip is always performed with the opponent's left hand and right hand, a sudden change of hand is an infringement.</li><br /><li>When any action endangers any joint of the opponent.</li><br /><li>Having the head on the opponent's clavicle or chest.</li><br /><li>To perform a sudden and very violent jerk to make the opponent drop his underwear.</li><br /><li>Disrespecting the referee or the opponent.</li><br /></ul><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">How is Canarian Wrestling practiced?</h2><br /> Canarian Wrestling is practiced through some techniques that the wrestler uses to knock down his opponent to the point that he or she touches the sand with some part of his body.<br /><br /> On many occasions, the wrestler uses more than one technique to knock down his opponent, so he or she usually performs a combination of these.<br /><br /> Likewise, in order to understand better how the game is played, we can distinguish 3 types of mañas (techniques) within Canarian Wrestling.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Grabbing techniques</h3><br /> These are techniques that consist of holding on to the opponent as much as possible to try to destabilize and lifting him or her by making him lose his balance.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Blocking techniques</h3><br /> They consist of immobilizing some part of the opponent's body, with the arms, with the legs, to knock down and take him or her to the sand without having to go to extremes such as dislocation or strangulation.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Diverting techniques</h3><br /> Techniques that seek to deflect the action of the opponent by moving the body and with the strength of it, knock him or her down on the sand.<br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-10259" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/2020/06/Canarian-wrestlers.png" alt="canarian wrestlers" width="220" height="236" /></p><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Famous Canarian wrestlers</h2><br /> Canarian Wrestling cannot be fully understood without its great protagonists, the wrestlers. People of great size, tough, but with a nobility and a sportsmanship in the field that is worthy of praise.<br /><br /> Through the years, many wrestlers have fought all over the islands, all of them with a capital importance in the consolidation of Canarian Wrestling as a sport that is very much to be considered in the islands.<br /><br /> However, there is a special place for some wrestlers who have managed to be recognised not only on the national scene but also internationally. That is why, we are going to present you, those who are in our opinion, are the 3 most famous wrestlers of Canarian wrestling.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Francis Pérez, el Pollito de la Frontera</h3><br /> One of the most emblematic fighters of the 90s and a legend of the Canarian Wrestling. Born on the island of El Hierro, Francis Pérez became an emblem of the vernacular sport.<br /><br /> His dedication was amazing, as he trained every day of the year for 7 hours and with his 1.96 and 150 kilos he became a real machine to knock down opponents in the Canarian Wrestling of the time. He retired very early in 2007, at the age of 33, due to various back problems.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Juan Espino, el Trota</h3><br /> One of the references of the Canarian Wrestling in recent years. His family has been linked for generations (his grandfather and his father were wrestlers) to this sport. He reached the highest level within Canarian wrestling (A), winning numerous collective and individual titles during his years as a wrestler, making him a legend.<br /><br /> In addition, he has spread the name of the Canary Islands and the Canarian Wrestling all over the world, becoming a reference in other types of wrestling, such as the Korean or the Senegalese, and winning titles.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Juan Barbuzano Martin</h3><br /> He tried his chances in various types of fighting, standing out mainly in Canarian Wrestling. He is considered to be the first great wrestler of the contemporary era.<br /><br /> At the age of 15 he had his first great moment knocking down an already famous wrestler like Miguel Armas three times in a row. From then on, Barbuzano had great performances in the Canarian Wrestling of the 60s and 70s, knocking down 7 of the 12 members of a team, winning championships and individual prizes.<br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Canarian Wrestling: heritage of the Canary Islands</h2><br /> Canarian sports have been consolidated over the years within the archipelago’s panorama, but none of them have had the repercussion that the Canarian Wrestling has obtained.<br /><br /> Since the 1980's, Canarian Wrestling has been growing as a structure of teams, infrastructures, and money that is invested in it until what it is today, a consolidated sport rooted in Canarian tradition.<br /><br /> However, it is more than just a sport of 12 against 12, where you have to knock down an opponent to win. It is culture, a symbol of Canarian identity, of traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation, becoming part of the cultural heritage of the Canary Islands.<br /><br /> In short, Canarian Wrestling must be cared for, pampered and continue to be transmitted from parents to children with the firm intention of keeping traditions intact and that visitors who come to the islands every year learn a little more about this vernacular sport." ["titulo_de_pagina"]=> string(65) "What is Canarian Wrestling 【 GUDE 2024】 | Villa Gran Canaria" ["metatag_descripcion"]=> string(162) "Discover here ⬆️ Canarian Wrestling, its history, how it is practiced, the techniques and the famous wrestlers. ✅ Learn more on the culture of the Canaries." ["experience_type"]=> string(1) "3" ["short_description"]=> string(177) "Discover everything about Canarian wrestling, its history, how it is practiced, the techniques and the most famous wrestlers. Learn more about the culture of the Canary Islands." ["city"]=> string(0) "" ["related_experiences"]=> string(0) "" ["visible"]=> string(1) "1" ["draft"]=> string(1) "0" ["admin_only_section"]=> string(1) "0" ["autosaved"]=> string(1) "0" ["builder"]=> string(0) "" ["controlador"]=> string(0) "" ["precontrolador"]=> string(0) "" ["tableName"]=> string(11) "experiences" ["image"]=> array(1) { [0]=> array(13) { ["num"]=> string(4) "1327" ["order"]=> string(10) "1598354480" ["tableName"]=> string(11) "experiences" ["fieldName"]=> string(5) "image" ["recordNum"]=> string(3) "331" ["filePath"]=> string(106) "/var/www/vhosts/villagrancanaria.plandeweb.com/httpdocs/cms/uploads//cms/uploads/2020/06/Lucha-canaria.jpg" ["urlPath"]=> string(38) "/cms/uploads/2020/06/Lucha-canaria.jpg" ["info1"]=> string(0) "" ["info2"]=> string(0) "" ["info3"]=> string(0) "" ["info4"]=> string(0) "" ["info5"]=> string(0) "" ["alt"]=> string(0) "" } } ["main_image"]=> array(0) { } ["gallery"]=> array(0) { } ["breadcrumbField"]=> string(0) "" ["mainFieldBreadcrumb"]=> string(28) "All about Canarian Wrestling" } [2]=> array(28) { ["num"]=> string(3) "319" ["createdDate"]=> string(19) "2019-08-02 09:30:25" ["createdByUserNum"]=> string(1) "1" ["updatedDate"]=> string(19) "2023-02-27 16:09:45" ["updatedByUserNum"]=> string(3) "514" ["dragSortOrder"]=> string(1) "8" ["enlace"]=> string(25) "/experiences/risco-caido/" ["title"]=> string(51) "Risco Caído, a World Heritage Site in Gran Canaria" ["content"]=> string(7046) "<p style="text-align:justify;">Are you one of those who likes to do cultural activities? If so, you’ll surely be interested in making an excursion to Risco Caído, recently declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, during your holiday in Gran Canaria.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">This thousand-year-old cave is part of the group of sacred mountains of Gran Canaria, which consists of about 1,500 caves. However, Risco Caído is a special place, since its symbolism, its history and the way it shows us how life was before the conquest are unique.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Do you want to know all of its secrets? In this post we reveal one of the jewels that adorn Gran Canaria. Come on and dive into the history of the round island!</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Risco Caído, a natural work of art that you can't miss</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Nature and traces left by historical events sometimes leave us works of art to enjoy their eternal beauty.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">This is the case of Risco Caido and the Sacred Mountains of Gran Canaria Cultural Landscape, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO at its last meeting in Azerbaijan.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Rico Caído is located in the volcanic caldera of Tejeda, a place of 18,000 hectares which the Spanish author Miguel de Unamuno called ‘petrified storm’. Among these mountains, the presence of Roque Nublo, one of the best places to climb in Gran Canaria, is also worth mentioning.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Do you want to know the reasons why it’s worth going and what a visit to the caves of Gran Canaria can bring? Read on and discover that the round island hides many secrets that are worth discovering.</p><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/montan_as_sagradas_de_gran_canaria.jpg"></figure><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Discover the story behind Risco Caído</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Every corner has its story to tell us and this couldn’t be less. In every step we take through here, there are clear traces of a culture forced to mix after the Castilian conquest from the fifteenth century.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In Risco Caído you can see how the Canarian aborigines lived, as there are many cave engravings, inscriptions in Libyan-Berber as well as remains of the subsistence activities carried out by the natives.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In fact, you can clearly see that this was a civilization that knew how to make optimal use of the resources and space available to them since all the caves were used for grain storage.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Specifically, in the cave of Risco Caído there is an ‘almogarén’ where religious rituals full of magic and charm were performed, which shows us how this culture was in its origins.</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Discovery of Risco Caído</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Like all great discoveries, Risco Caído was the result of chance. It wasn’t until 1996 that the archaeologist Julio Cuenca found this archaeological and astronomical site.</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">How is Risco Caído</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Within the complex that forms part of this enclave there are two caves of special significance: the C6 and C7, which are located just north of the village and were probably the sanctuary of the aborigines in the middle of the mountain.<br><br>Specifically, the C6 cave has a particular circular shape with a paraboloid dome that is rare in the rest of the caves on the island.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">But what is most remarkable about this corner in Risco Caído is that it has a channel through which sunlight or moonlight enters and is reflected on all the walls of the cave, highlighting the paintings inside and giving the place that aura of reflection typical of any sanctuary.</p><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/parajes_naturales_gran_canaria.jpg"></figure><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Other Gran Canaria caves</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">If you think that Gran Canaria is only ideal for sun and beach tourism, we have to tell you that you're very wrong.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In this island you can find very interesting natural places which have a vital importance if you want to know their history and origins.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In fact, in its mountains you can find many caves that were direct witnesses of the life of their ancestors.</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3" style="text-align:justify;">Acusa Seca cave-houses</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">They're located right in the caldera of Tejeda, being a flat space located in the middle of the mountains where you can still see the remains of the ancient civilizations that lived before the Castilian conquest.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In many of them there are still cave paintings, old barns and the tombs of the ancient Canarians. If you like vegetation and nature, this is a place that will undoubtedly leave you with your mouth open.</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3" style="text-align:justify;">Cueva pintada, a natural museum</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">It's one of the most important archaeological sites in Gran Canaria. In fact, inside this cave is one of the most important examples of cave art.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">It's one of the sites where most work has been done in the whole island, since it's the result of more than 25 years of work in each of its corners to capture the historical legacy of the island's ancestors.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">One of the most curious findings of this site are the funeral and embalming rites that can be found around the cave.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Remember that all visits to this monument are guided, so if you plan to add this cave to your itinerary, you'll have to make an appointment and think about it in advance.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">At VillaGranCanaria we want your trip to the island to be perfect. To this end, we can offer you villas in the middle of nature where you can rest from your daily routine and stay near places like Risco Caído.</p>" ["titulo_de_pagina"]=> string(55) "▷ Risco Caido: World Heritage Site - VillaGranCanaria" ["metatag_descripcion"]=> string(139) "Are you going to the Canary Islands on holiday? ✅ Visit Risco Caido, one of the treasures of the island declared a World Heritage Site. " ["experience_type"]=> string(1) "3" ["short_description"]=> string(138) "Are you going to the Canary Islands on holiday? Visit the Risco Caído, one of the treasures of the island declared a World Heritage Site." ["city"]=> string(3) "100" ["related_experiences"]=> string(0) "" ["visible"]=> string(1) "1" ["draft"]=> string(1) "0" ["admin_only_section"]=> string(1) "0" ["autosaved"]=> string(1) "0" ["builder"]=> string(0) "" ["controlador"]=> string(0) "" ["precontrolador"]=> string(0) "" ["tableName"]=> string(11) "experiences" ["image"]=> array(1) { [0]=> array(13) { ["num"]=> string(4) "1315" ["order"]=> string(10) "1598354480" ["tableName"]=> string(11) "experiences" ["fieldName"]=> string(5) "image" ["recordNum"]=> string(3) "319" ["filePath"]=> string(104) "/var/www/vhosts/villagrancanaria.plandeweb.com/httpdocs/cms/uploads//cms/uploads/2019/08/risco-caido.jpg" ["urlPath"]=> string(36) "/cms/uploads/2019/08/risco-caido.jpg" ["info1"]=> string(0) "" ["info2"]=> string(0) "" ["info3"]=> string(0) "" ["info4"]=> string(0) "" ["info5"]=> string(0) "" ["alt"]=> string(0) "" } } ["main_image"]=> array(0) { } ["gallery"]=> array(0) { } ["breadcrumbField"]=> string(0) "" ["mainFieldBreadcrumb"]=> string(51) "Risco Caído, a World Heritage Site in Gran Canaria" } } ["breadcrumbField"]=> string(0) "" ["mainFieldBreadcrumb"]=> string(84) "Cueva Pintada de Gáldar, the canvas of the ancient aborigines of the Canary Islands" } [2]=> array(31) { ["num"]=> string(3) "359" ["createdDate"]=> string(19) "2021-02-22 14:42:23" ["createdByUserNum"]=> string(2) "68" ["updatedDate"]=> string(19) "2023-10-06 10:54:12" ["updatedByUserNum"]=> string(3) "440" ["dragSortOrder"]=> string(2) "39" ["enlace"]=> string(32) "/experiences/cenobio-de-valeron/" ["title"]=> string(67) "Cenobio de Valerón, the Granary of the Ancient Canarian Aborigines" ["content"]=> string(7368) "<p style="text-align:justify;">The Cenobio de Valerón is clear proof of the enormous cultural development that Gran Canaria achieved during the pre-Hispanic period. In fact, on the island you can visit ancient archaeological sites and see cave paintings and burial mounds built on lava.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">One of these magical places is to be found in the north of Gran Canaria, in caves that are, in essence, a collective granary of enormous dimensions that the ancient aborigines created to store cereal, the real basis of their diet, as can be seen in one of the culinary delights: gofio.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">This is a set of more than 300 hollows drilled more than 800 years ago by stone peaks in the soft rock, connected to each other at different levels of a high escarpment of the Montaña del Gallego mountain.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">It’s an authentic work of prehistoric engineering worthy of a visit because of its heritage and cultural value, not only for the island but for the whole of the Canary Islands. In addition, the strategic nature of the site made it a real natural fortress, as it was unnoticed from the outside due to its location on an almost vertical mountain wall.</p><p> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">What is a cenobio in Gran Canaria?</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">According to the Diccionario de la lengua española (Dictionary of the Spanish language) of the Real Academia Española (Royal Spanish Academy), the word <a href="https://dle.rae.es/cenobio?m=form"><i><strong>cenobio</strong></i></a> comes from the late Latin <i>coenobĭum</i>, and this from the Bizantine Greek κοινόβιον <i>koinóbion</i>; literally 'life in common', thus monastery.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">However, in Gran Canaria this term is linked to a false idea that has been completely discarded today, according to which the silos or chambers of the site were like the rooms of a convent where the young women of the noble class were locked up until they married, under the care of the <i>harimaguadas</i> or priestesses of great social and religious influence.</p><p> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">How to get to the Cenobio de Valerón archaeological site</h2><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/Cenobio_de_Valeron_en_Gran_Canaria_1.png"></figure><p style="text-align:justify;">This old grain store is located in the north of Gran Canaria, in the municipality of Santa María de Guía.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Access to the site can be made in either direction from the GC-2 motorway, at exit number 20, which is clearly signposted on the road signs.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Then take the GC-291 and in less than five minutes we will reach the site simply by following the signs.</p><p> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Useful information</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Some important facts about this archaeological site on Gran Canaria are as follows.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Distances and times</h3><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Las Palmas de Gran Canaria:</strong> 22 km (30 minutes)</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Maspalomas:</strong> 77 km (1 hour)</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Puerto de Mogán:</strong> 98 km (1 hour and 20 minutes)</li></ul><p> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Opening hours</h3><p><strong>WINTER HOURS</strong> (October - March)<br>Tuesday to Sunday: 10.00 - 17.00h</p><p><br><strong>SUMMER OPENING HOURS</strong> (April - September)<br>Tuesday to Sunday: 10.00 - 18.00h<br>Closed every Monday and on 1, 5 and 6 January, 1 May, 24, 25 and 31 December.</p><p> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Price</h3><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>General price:</strong> 3 €.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Reduced price*:</strong> 2 € (school groups, except local school; groups of over 10 people with prior appointment; children between the ages of 10 and 14; student card holders; and people over 65 years old.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Special free entry</strong> for educational groups from the municipality with prior appointment; tourist guides and teachers accompanying groups; and children under 10; people with functional diversity.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Combo 5 €</strong> including a visit to Maipés de Agaete included.</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>*</strong>To qualify for the reduced fee, visitors must show all the appropriate documentation.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Guided tours, activities and workshops are available to school groups or private groups of over 10 individuals.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Guided tours have to be requested by prior appointment.</p><p> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Address</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Cuesta de Silva, s/n, 35450, Santa María de Guía, Las Palmas, España</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Phone</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">(+34) 618 607 896</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Email</h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="mailto:museosyarqueologia@arqueocanaria.com">museosyarqueologia@arqueocanaria.com</a></p><p> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Web</h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="http://www.arqueologiacanaria.com/Arqueologia_Canaria/Cenobio_de_Valeron.html">http://www.arqueologiacanaria.com/Arqueologia_Canaria/Cenobio_de_Valeron.html</a></p><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/Cenobio_de_Valeron_en_Canarias_1.jpeg"></figure><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Cenobio de Valerón Sources</h2><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www3.gobiernodecanarias.org/medusa/wiki/index.php?title=Cenobio_de_Valer%C3%B3n"><strong>Canary Islands Government</strong></a></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.grancanaria.com/turismo/en/culture/archaeological-sites/cenobio-de-valeron/"><strong>Gran Canaria Tourism Board</strong></a></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.hellocanaryislands.com/museums-and-places-interest/gran-canaria/cenobio-de-valeron/"><strong>Hello Canary Islands</strong></a></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caves_of_Valeron"><strong>Wikipedia</strong></a></li></ul>" ["titulo_de_pagina"]=> string(65) "▷ Cenobio de Valerón 【 COMPLETE GUIDE 】 - VillaGranCanaria" ["metatag_descripcion"]=> string(144) "Discover here ⬆️ everything about the Cenobio de Valerón. ✅ ¡Get to know one of the most important archaeological sites of Gran Canaria!" 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Discover the most traditional aspects of Canarian culture with Villa Gran Canaria." 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Sail out to watch whales, walk in the Canary pine forests, have fun at a water park, wander its shopping streets, visit museums or just relax on a beautiful beach." ["visible"]=> string(1) "1" ["visible_experiencias"]=> string(1) "1" ["booki_exists"]=> string(1) "1" ["titulo_de_pagina"]=> string(50) "Holiday Rentals in Gran Canaria | VillaGranCanaria" ["metatag_descripcion"]=> string(132) "Find and book Holiday Rentals in Gran Canaria at the best price. Apartments, houses, villas, bungalows... Enjoy a unique experience." ["h1"]=> string(36) "Book Holiday Rentals in Gran Canaria" ["content"]=> string(21014) "<h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Gran Canaria Holiday Rentals</h2><p>Gran Canaria offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the main draws of the island is its <strong>stunning beaches</strong>. From the bustling Playa del Inglés to the more secluded Maspalomas, there are plenty of options to relax, sunbathe, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Water sports enthusiasts can also indulge in activities like surfing, windsurfing, and diving in popular spots such as Las Canteras and Puerto de Mogán.</p><p> </p><p>Aside from its beautiful coastline, Gran Canaria is renowned for its diverse landscapes. The island is home to stunning natural wonders like the dramatic cliffs of Puerto de Mogán, the rugged mountains of Roque Nublo, and the lush forests of Doramas Rural Park. Hiking and biking trails are abundant, allowing visitors to explore the island's unique flora and fauna.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Culture and history</strong> enthusiasts will be fascinated by Gran Canaria's rich heritage. The capital city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria boasts historical sites like the grand <strong>Cathedral of Santa Ana</strong> and the <i><strong>Casa de Colón</strong></i>, a museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus. The picturesque towns of Teror and Arucas are also worth a visit, with their charming colonial architecture and scenic plazas.</p><p> </p><p>For those seeking <strong>entertainment and nightlife</strong>, Gran Canaria doesn't disappoint. The island is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in popular areas like Playa del Inglés and Puerto Rico. Visitors can enjoy a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues, ensuring there is always something happening after the sun goes down.</p><p> </p><p>In summary, Gran Canaria offers a diverse range of activities and sights to satisfy all types of travelers. From its stunning beaches to its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone to enjoy on this beautiful island.</p><p> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">The weather in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Did you know that the days in Gran Canaria are long and sunny with mild temperatures and few variations? In fact, Gran Canaria is one of the regions in Europe with <strong>more hours of sunlight</strong> – over 3,000.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Its geographical location also favours long days that are full of sunlight all year round. In winter, the sun rises at 7:30am and sets at 6:30pm; in summer it’s sunrise at 7:00am and sunset at 8:30pm.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Accommodation options in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Have you already decided that you want to spend your next holiday on the beautiful island of Gran Canaria and you need a holiday rental? Gran Canaria is an island with a huge offer of accommodation of all kinds and for all tastes.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Villas</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">A villa is probably the best option for those looking for maximum privacy. At VillaGranCanaria we are experts in renting villas of all types:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Villas with private pool:</strong> the best option to enjoy a good bath without sharing space with other people.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Luxury villas:</strong> if you are looking to treat yourself, the best is a deluxe villa with all kinds of comforts and magnificent views.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Beach villas:</strong> look no further if you want to wake up to the gentle sea breeze or be mesmerised by the coastal sunsets.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Cheap villas:</strong> the best high quality accommodation at an affordable price and with the greatest possible comfort.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Group villas:</strong> the ultimate choice for families with children or groups of friends looking for peace and quiet and a higher degree of privacy.</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Apartments</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Those who prefer to stay in a holiday flat are generally looking to spend more time outside than inside. Even so, at VillaGranCanaria we have great alternatives:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Beach apartments:</strong> a flat just a few metres from the sea is the best choice for ocean addicts.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>City apartments:</strong> urbanites are in luck because an urban flat is the best way to discover the city's corners.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Luxury apartments:</strong> if you prefer to live large, a deluxe flat is the perfect option for you.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Cheap apartments:</strong> if you prefer a cheap flat with the best value for money on the market... stop looking!</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Bungalows</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">One of the most popular options on the market are bungalows. Fortunately, at VillaGranCanaria we have the best bungalows on the island at your disposal:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Beach bungalows:</strong> Imagine spending a day on the sand and just a few steps from your bungalow... The best possible location!</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Luxury bungalows:</strong> a deluxe bungalow is a great option to enjoy the highest comfort in a unique accommodation.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Cheap bungalows:</strong> the budget bungalows are ideal for sharing, always keeping in mind the best value for money.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Bungalows with private pool:</strong> if you prefer not to leave the bungalow and enjoy the pool without "neighbours"... This is your option!</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Country houses</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Nature lovers are in luck because this island has spectacular natural landscapes. Discover them by staying in the rural houses of VillaGranCanaria:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Luxury country houses:</strong> the ideal option to enjoy nature to the maximum with the best comforts in a unique accommodation with incredible views.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Family country houses:</strong> the alternative for families who want to enjoy the interior of Gran Canaria doing activities with their children.</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Travel information for your holiday rentals on Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">If you're thinking of a holiday rental in Gran Canaria, mark your calendar because this beautiful island is more than just sun, beach and spectacular scenery. Not for nothing is it known as the miniature continent.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Southern Gran Canaria: idyllic beaches surrounded by tradition</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Being one of the most important tourist destinations in Spain, it is not surprising that most of the tourists who decide to book their holidays in Gran Canaria do so attracted by its dream beaches. And the closest places to enjoy the island's coastline to the full are Salobre Golf, Maspalomas, Meloneras or Pasito Blanco, among others.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Northern Gran Canaria: extraordinary landscapes of cliffs and volcanoes</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">However, more and more people are visiting this destination for rural tourism, hiking, water sports or cycling, and to discover fascinating places such as Roque Nublo, Roque Bentayga or Pico de las Nieves. Be sure to discover charming villages such as Tejeda, San Mateo, Teror, Arucas, Gáldar and Agaete, among others.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: the best cultural, commercial and leisure offer on the island</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The island's capital, a cosmopolitan city open to the sea, is Gran Canaria's main cultural, commercial and leisure attraction. Here you will find everything: shopping centres, museums, restaurants, the kilometre-long and impressive Las Canteras beach, the majestic Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, the historic Cathedral of Santa Ana... the list goes on and on!</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">How to get to your holiday rental in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">The best way to travel to Gran Canaria is by air to the Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), which is located around the middle of the east coast of the island. It is situated more or less at the same distance (about 25 kilometres) from the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and the southern part, a true sunny paradise.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">No matter the location of your Gran Canaria holiday home, it will likely be accessible by transportation from the airport. Buses, coaches and taxis are all available for you to bring you to your destination. Rental cars are also available at the airport, which ensure a quicker and more comfortable journey.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Gran Canaria and its gastronomy</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">The local cuisine of the Canary Islands comprises a variety of fresh vegetables and a mix of seafood and meat. This gastronomy is influenced by many cultures, most prevalently Spanish, North African, Latin American and even historical aboriginal themes also influence the vibrant local dishes.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">We encourage you to choose from the large variety of traditional restaurants called bochinches or guachinches throughout the island if a true Canarian culinary experience is what you are after. Nevertheless, there are plenty of restaurants where international gastronomy can be found.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">What to do in Gran Canaria with children</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">For a different and fun family holiday, there is nothing better than a visit to Gran Canaria. The island has everything the little ones need to have a great time: water parks, theme parks, amusement parks, outdoor activities, zoos, aquariums and the chance to live unforgettable experiences and adventures in places where fun for young and old is always guaranteed.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Water parks</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Although all the water parks are ideal for having a great time, spending a day at Aqualand Maspalomas or Lago Taurito (100% salt water) is an unforgettable experience not to be missed if you are travelling to Gran Canaria with children.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Theme parks</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Children always have a great time at theme parks. It's a safe bet. And in Gran Canaria there are two of the best: Sioux City Park (where they will feel like a western sheriff) and GrancAventura (a different adventure park...).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Amusement parks</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The classic amusement parks are also a great attraction for children. Here you will find two spectacular ones: Angry Birds Activity Park (for action-packed fun) and Holidayworld Maspalomas (with countless attractions, bowling, escape room, karaoke...).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Zoos and aquariums</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Gran Canaria also has zoos and aquariums where you can discover all kinds of exotic animals up close: Palmitos Park (with a large number of birds, plants, reptiles, mammals...) and Poema del Mar (with three well-differentiated areas and thousands of marine species).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Practising sports in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Gran Canaria is famous for its magnificent beaches of fine sand and crystal-clear waters, but also offers much more than sun and sand. Its lush forests, mountains, trails, ravines, beaches, reefs and clean skies are some of the natural spaces in Gran Canaria that invite you to do active tourism, without forgetting relaxation, fun and adventure. Some of the most practiced sports on the island are:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Golf</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Gran Canaria provides fully equipped infrastructures and top-class courses adapted for all handicaps designed by world champions and reputed architects like Salobre Golf. The climate here means you can enjoy golf all year round to focus on your game and disconnect from it all. And after a few swings, there’s practically no better plan than to spend a while relaxing on the beach, for professionals and amateurs alike.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Cycling</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Gran Canaria has a huge variety of ideal routes for road cycling, with paved tracks and roads with slopes and gradients that cross volcanic passes posing a great challenge for cyclists of all levels. The unchanging temperatures throughout the year and the low rainfall enable you to go cycling every day of the year.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Water sports</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The sea around the island allows for many water sports to be practiced, like the following ones:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Surfing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Windsurfing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Kitesurfing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Bodyboarding</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Stand up paddle</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Scuba diving</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Snorkeling</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Sailing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Parasailing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Kayaking</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Fishing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Jet skiing</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Mountain sports</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Of course, apart from sea sports there are lots of mountain sports you can do on the island:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Hiking</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Trail running</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Climbing</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Mountain biking</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Trekking</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Orienteering</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Canyoning</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Paragliding</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Museums in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Theatre, dance, concerts and plastic arts go hand in hand in the island's cultural agenda.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">1. Museo Néstor</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">In the Museo Néstor, named after the local artist Néstor de la Torre, you can see his portraits and most important works. It is located in the Pueblo Canario, in the capital of Gran Canaria.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">2. Casa de Colón</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The Casa de Colón, located in the Vegueta district of the historic quarter of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is the best option for discovering the island's relationship with the American continent and what oceanic voyages were like.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">3. CAAM</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Nearby, the Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno (CAAM or Atlantic Centre of Modern Art) is the archipelago's leading contemporary art museum. Highly recommended for those looking for a different kind of museum.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">4. Museo Canario</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">What were the ancient Canarians like and how did they live? The answer to these and many more questions can be found at the Museo Canario in Las Palmas. Its large collection of aboriginal mummies will leave you speechless.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">5. Museo Elder</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The Elder Museum of Science and Technology has one rule that everyone who enters the museum must obey: it is strictly forbidden not to touch. Young and old alike will have a great time in a 100% interactive museum.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Nightlife in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">If nightlife is your thing, Gran Canaria is the place to go, with a vibrant and fun atmosphere throughout the cities on the island. Choose from a range of pubs, bars, clubs and discos, in cities like Las Palmas, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas and Meloneras.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In fact, in certain areas the island seems to never sleep, and parties deep into the night. If you are looking for a quieter atmosphere, skip the clubs and check out the numerous stylish bars, cafés and casinos throughout the cities on the island.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">What to see in Gran Canaria</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">On an island that offers as much to the visitor as Gran Canaria, you should not miss the most attractive places on the island:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">1. Maspalomas Dunes</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Located on the south coast of the island, the dunes of Maspalomas were formed from ocean sand during the Ice Age and are now a nature reserve.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">2. Roque Nublo</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The Roque Nublo, located in Tejeda and 67 metres high, was formed by a volcanic eruption millions of years ago and was used by the ancient Canarians for rituals.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">3. Las Canteras Beach</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">This urban beach is one of the best in Gran Canaria. It is almost 4 kilometres long and is protected by La Barra, a rock formation with abundant marine life.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">4. Vegueta</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">With its narrow cobbled streets, this old part of Las Palmas transports visitors back to the 15th century, with beautiful buildings, galleries and museums steeped in history.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">5. Puerto de Mogán</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">The canals that link the marina with the fishing port gave the town its name of Little Venice. 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In fact, it can be compared to (on a smaller scale, of course) the Altamira Cave or the Atapuerca Site.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Canarian aborigines are believed to have arrived in the archipelago around the 5th century BC, so for almost two millennia the first settlers lived in isolation on the islands, creating their own culture and lifestyle adapted to the wild, volcanic environment.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Although most of them lived in caves, in the north of Gran Canaria there are remains of an ancient settlement whose economy was based on hunting, livestock and agriculture, sectors which they used to the maximum for their survival.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Undoubtedly, the ancient settlers are an example of development in an extreme habitat that today can be seen at first hand thanks to the important legacy and archaeological trace that they have left throughout history in magical places like this one.</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">What is the Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park in Gáldar?</h2><figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fRoioRSDW9Q"><div style="position: relative; padding-bottom: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fRoioRSDW9Q" style="position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 100%; top: 0; left: 0;" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div></div></figure><p style="text-align:justify;">The Cueva Pintada is, together with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://villagrancanaria.com/experiences/cenobio-de-valeron/"><strong>Cenobio de Valerón</strong></a>, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Canary Islands. It’s located in Gran Canaria, specifically in the northern municipality of Gáldar, which was one of the two <i>guanartematos</i> or kingdoms into which the island of <i>Tamarán</i> was divided, together with Telde.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In recent years it has become a must-see for anyone who wants to learn about the history of the Canary Islands first-hand, as it’s a complex made up of a hamlet surrounding a cavern carved out of the rock.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">To get there, you first have to cross a walkway over the ruins of an ancient settlement where you can see how the ancient dwellings of the aborigines were organised and laid out.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Once inside the cave, you can see the geometric motifs that decorate the walls, clear evidence of the artistic representations of the time, which, thanks to the glass dome that protects the entire vault, can be seen up close.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The fact is that to enter the past through the cave paintings is an experience that’s not easily forgotten: walking in front of authentic archaeological discoveries and not a recreation is astonishing.</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">How to get to the archaeological site Cueva Pintada de Gáldar</h2><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">By private vehicle</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">To get to this museum and archaeological park located in the municipality of Gáldar, take the GC-2, the motorway that runs parallel to the north coast of the island, until you reach exit 25.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Then, at the roundabout, turn right towards the village of Gáldar and take the first street on the left (Calle Maninidra).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">As this village is full of intricate streets, it’s recommended to continue along this street until the end of it and leave your car in the car park on the left hand side.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Then just walk for about 4 minutes along Guaires Street to the end, turn right into Andamana Street, then left into Facaracas Street and finally right into Bentejuí Street.</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">By public transport</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Global, the bus company of Gran Canaria (called guaguas in the archipelago) connects the capital of the island with the village of Gáldar through <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.guaguasglobal.com/pdflineas/linea105.pdf"><strong>line 105</strong></a>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The route ends at the Gáldar Bus Station, from where you have to walk to the archaeological site for about 9 minutes.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Just follow the main road, connect with Capitán Quesada Street until the end, where you turn left into Plaza de Santiago square (the end point of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://villagrancanaria.com/experiences/way-saint-james-gran-canaria/"><strong>Way of Saint James in Gran Canaria</strong></a>) and finish a few metres along Bentejuí Street.</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Useful information for visiting the Painted Cave of Gáldar</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Some important facts about this archaeological site on Gran Canaria are as follows.</p><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/Cueva_Pintada_en_Galdar_1.jpg"></figure><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Distances and times</h3><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Las Palmas de Gran Canaria:</strong> 22 km (30 minutes)</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Maspalomas:</strong> 77 km (1 hour)</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>From Puerto de Mogán:</strong> 98 km (1 hour and 20 minutes)</li></ul><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Opening hours</h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>October to May</strong></p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00 h. (last guided tour at 16:30).</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Sundays and public holidays from 11:00 to 18:00 h. (last guided tour at 16:30 p.m.).</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>June to September</strong></p><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 to 19:30 h. (last guided tour at 18:00).</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;">Sundays and public holidays from 11:00 to 19:00 h. (last guided tour at 17:30).</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;">The museum and archaeological park are open until half an hour before closing time (although it’s not possible to visit the entire museum during this time).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Closed every Monday of the year; 1, 5 and 6 January; 1 May; 24, 25 and 31 December.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>IMPORTANT:</strong> for conservation reasons, seating is limited and tickets are available until full.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>COVID-19:</strong> please consult the new visiting conditions on the official website.</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Price</h3><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>General ticket:</strong> €6.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Reduced ticket:</strong> €3 (over 65s, pensioners and students up to 23 years of age).</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Group and large family tickets:</strong> €4 (14 or more people and members of large families).</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Free admission:</strong> children under 18, school groups, unemployed, people with disabilities and accompanying persons, ICOM card holders, teachers, accredited guides and professional visitors.</li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Free admission days:</strong> every Sunday throughout the year, plus 18 April, 18 and 30 May, 25 and 26 July and 27 September, unless they’re compulsory closure days.</li></ul><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/Cueva_Pintada_1.jpg"></figure><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Address</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">Calle Audiencia, 2, 35460, Gáldar, Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, España.</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Phone</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">(+34) 928 895 746</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Email</h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="mailto:cuevapintada@grancanaria.com"><strong>cuevapintada@grancanaria.com</strong></a></p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3">Web</h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://www.cuevapintada.com/"><strong>http://www.cuevapintada.com/</strong></a></p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Cueva Pintada de Gáldar Sources</h2><ul class='bullet'><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.grancanaria.com/turismo/en/culture/native-culture/cueva-pintada-museum/"><strong>Gran Canaria Tourism Board</strong></a></li><li class="relative ml-5 list-disc" style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hellocanaryislands.com/museums-and-places-interest/gran-canaria/cueva-pintada/"><strong>Hello Canary Islands</strong></a></li></ul>" ["titulo_de_pagina"]=> string(62) "Cueva Pintada de Gáldar 【 2024 GUIDE 】 - VillaGranCanaria" ["metatag_descripcion"]=> string(140) "Discover here ⬆️ all about the Cueva Pintada de Gáldar. ✅ Get to know one of the most important archaeological sites in Gran Canaria!" ["experience_type"]=> string(1) "3" ["short_description"]=> string(76) "The Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park in Gáldar is a must visit." ["city"]=> string(3) "100" ["related_experiences"]=> string(13) " 359 331 319 " ["visible"]=> string(1) "1" ["draft"]=> string(1) "0" ["admin_only_section"]=> string(1) "0" ["autosaved"]=> string(1) "0" ["builder"]=> string(0) "" ["controlador"]=> string(0) "" ["precontrolador"]=> string(0) "" ["tableName"]=> string(11) "experiences" ["image"]=> array(1) { [0]=> array(13) { ["num"]=> string(5) "59741" ["order"]=> string(10) "1614691754" ["tableName"]=> string(11) "experiences" ["fieldName"]=> string(5) "image" ["recordNum"]=> string(3) "360" ["filePath"]=> string(95) "/var/www/vhosts/villagrancanaria.com/httpdocs/cms/uploads/Cueva_Pintada_Galdar_Gran_Canaria.jpg" ["urlPath"]=> string(50) "/cms/uploads/Cueva_Pintada_Galdar_Gran_Canaria.jpg" ["info1"]=> string(0) "" ["info2"]=> string(0) "" ["info3"]=> string(0) "" ["info4"]=> string(0) "" ["info5"]=> string(0) "" ["alt"]=> string(33) "cueva pintada galdar gran canaria" } } ["main_image"]=> array(0) { } ["gallery"]=> array(0) { } ["breadcrumbField"]=> string(0) "" ["mainFieldBreadcrumb"]=> string(84) "Cueva Pintada de Gáldar, the canvas of the ancient aborigines of the Canary Islands" } [1]=> array(28) { ["num"]=> string(3) "331" ["createdDate"]=> string(19) "2020-06-02 14:52:38" ["createdByUserNum"]=> string(1) "1" ["updatedDate"]=> string(19) "2023-12-07 09:11:33" ["updatedByUserNum"]=> string(4) "1340" ["dragSortOrder"]=> string(2) "22" ["enlace"]=> string(32) "/experiences/canarian-wrestling/" ["title"]=> string(28) "All about Canarian Wrestling" ["content"]=> string(13384) "A sport typical of the Canary Islands, the Canarian Wrestling has been kept alive over the centuries thanks to oral transmission. The ancient Canarians used wrestling to perform religious rituals which, nowadays, are performed exclusively for sporting purposes and in places specifically designed for it.<br /><br /> Thanks to the geographical location of the islands, it has contributed to the influence of different peoples who, in one way or another, have left their mark on the islands.<br /><br /> One example of this influence is the different games played on the archipelago, which have become a cultural heritage that has been maintained by the ancient inhabitants of the islands thanks largely to written sources. Some examples are the juego del palo (literally, game of stick), salto del pastor (literally shepherd's jump), etc.<br /><br /> However, among all these games, today we come to talk about Canarian Wrestling, how it arose, how it evolved or how its rules are so that you can better understand everything about the vernacular sport.<br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">What is Canarian Wrestling?</h2><br /> Canarian Wrestling is the most traditional sport on the islands. The chronicles of the conquest echoed the Canarian Wrestling by the islanders, which they passed on from generation to generation.<br /><br /> According to these chronicles, the fights were carried out to resolve conflicts over the owning of land or other issues. Nobility, respect and team spirit are elements that should always prevail in this type of practice.<br /><br /> Likewise, Canarian Wrestling has always been regarded as a sport for large and rough men. However, to be a wrestler you do not need to meet these requirements, it rewards agility more than strength in this sport, especially to see what the opponent's weaknesses are and use them against him to knock him down.<br /><br /> The fights takes place in rounds that bring together the opponents of two teams that are eliminated as they lose in the fights.<br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-10253" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/2020/06/Canarian-wrestling-history.png" alt="canarian wrestling history" width="560" height="290" /></p><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">History of Canarian Wrestling</h2><br /> The first Canarian fighting techniques were recorded for the first time in the year 1420, and the referees who were known as "men of honour" were also appointed.<br /><br /> The origin of this practice has provoked a great debate over the years. The most widespread theory about the origins of Canarian Wrestling is that it comes from North Africa, via the Berbers.<br /><br /> A fact in favour of this theory is that there are a series of wrestlings exactly like the Canarian Wrestling in North Africa and that they fully coincide with the fights practiced in the past. Experts in the field divide the Canarian Wrestling into three periods.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Historical stage</h3><br /> The most primitive wrestling is that of the 15th century which is characterized by:<br /><ul class='bullet'><br /><li>Techniques similar to the current ones.</li><br /><li>The development of the challenges, the honorability of the wrestling and the way of grabbing.</li><br /><li>Every confrontation is a running fight.</li><br /><li>They were smeared in lard to make it difficult for the opponent to grip.</li><br /><li>The figure of the "man of honor" begins to gain importance.</li><br /></ul><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Folkloric stage</h3><br /> We take a leap forward to the 19th century when the Canarian Wrestling begins establishing in Canarian culture, considering it as another example of folklore and tradition.<br /><br /> This is the time when wrestling began to develop for all the peoples of the islands, overcoming the obstacles imposed on them by the bourgeoisie of the time, who branded the Canarian Wrestling as something despicable, vulgar and anachronistic.<br /><ul class='bullet'><br /><li>There were no written rules, the rules were established before the fight.</li><br /><li>The teams were made according to villages or regions, and there were no fixed teams or fighters in a team.</li><br /><li>The fights took place at festivals or events of great importance in the villages.</li><br /><li>Different forms of grip between islands. For example, in Tenerife they fought hand down and in Gran Canaria they fought hand in.</li><br /></ul><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Institutional stage</h3><br /> Canarian Wrestling evolved to a sport. In the 1940's, the Canarian Wrestling Federation was created, with provincial headquarters, totally dependent on the Spanish Wrestling Federation.<br /><br /> In 1947 the first two independent provincial federations were created; one on the island of Gran Canaria and the other on Tenerife.<br /><ul class='bullet'><br /><li>Los comisionados dieron paso a los árbitros.</li><br /><li>Serán 12 los luchadores que habrá por equipo.</li><br /><li>El tipo de agarrada de lucha canaria se establece a mano abajo en todas las islas.</li><br /><li>Las luchadas se desarrollarán entre equipos federados, formándose competiciones reguladas como las insulares, provinciales y regionales.</li><br /><li>The commissioners gave way to the referees.</li><br /><li>12 wrestlers per team.</li><br /><li>The type of Canarian Wrestling grip is set down by hand on all the islands.</li><br /><li>Fights between federated teams, with regulated competitions such as island, provincial and regional.</li><br /><li>Canarian Wrestling is today a very widespread sport, with an independent Canarian Federation, based on each of the islands and with unique rules.</li><br /></ul><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-10256" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/2020/06/Canarian-wrestling-rules.jpg" alt="canarian wrestling rules" width="643" height="362" /></p><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Rules of Canarian Wrestling</h2><br /> The rules that began to be used nowadays appeared in 1870, but it was not until 1940 that the federations were formed, unifying the regulations for the entire archipelago.<br /><br /> However, over the years these rules have undergone various modifications until they became what they are today.<br /><ul class='bullet'><br /><li>The duration of the fight is 3 minutes. In the all against all mode, the duration is 90 minutes.</li><br /><li>The only person who can interrupt the fight is the referee, the time in which the fight is stopped being discounted. During this time, no wrestler can leave the ground, whoever does so will be considered a loser.</li><br /><li>The fall is valid when one of the two wrestlers touches the sand with any part of the body other than his feet.</li><br /><li>In Canarian wrestling, if the fall is simultaneous, the referee may whistle "revolt" (fight again).</li><br /><li>The fall that occurs when one wrestler takes the other by the hand and forces him to touch the ground is not valid.</li><br /><li>The fall is valid when the wrestler falls on the inside of the line, also being valid if he or she touches the outside of the line. However, if the first wrestler falls outside the line, the line is broken.</li><br /></ul><br /> Within the rules we can also distinguish erroneous positions such as the following:<br /><ul class='bullet'><br /><li>Not positioning well at the start of the grab.</li><br /><li>Having the hands out at the moment of immobilization.</li><br /><li>The grip is always performed with the opponent's left hand and right hand, a sudden change of hand is an infringement.</li><br /><li>When any action endangers any joint of the opponent.</li><br /><li>Having the head on the opponent's clavicle or chest.</li><br /><li>To perform a sudden and very violent jerk to make the opponent drop his underwear.</li><br /><li>Disrespecting the referee or the opponent.</li><br /></ul><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">How is Canarian Wrestling practiced?</h2><br /> Canarian Wrestling is practiced through some techniques that the wrestler uses to knock down his opponent to the point that he or she touches the sand with some part of his body.<br /><br /> On many occasions, the wrestler uses more than one technique to knock down his opponent, so he or she usually performs a combination of these.<br /><br /> Likewise, in order to understand better how the game is played, we can distinguish 3 types of mañas (techniques) within Canarian Wrestling.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Grabbing techniques</h3><br /> These are techniques that consist of holding on to the opponent as much as possible to try to destabilize and lifting him or her by making him lose his balance.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Blocking techniques</h3><br /> They consist of immobilizing some part of the opponent's body, with the arms, with the legs, to knock down and take him or her to the sand without having to go to extremes such as dislocation or strangulation.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Diverting techniques</h3><br /> Techniques that seek to deflect the action of the opponent by moving the body and with the strength of it, knock him or her down on the sand.<br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-10259" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/2020/06/Canarian-wrestlers.png" alt="canarian wrestlers" width="220" height="236" /></p><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Famous Canarian wrestlers</h2><br /> Canarian Wrestling cannot be fully understood without its great protagonists, the wrestlers. People of great size, tough, but with a nobility and a sportsmanship in the field that is worthy of praise.<br /><br /> Through the years, many wrestlers have fought all over the islands, all of them with a capital importance in the consolidation of Canarian Wrestling as a sport that is very much to be considered in the islands.<br /><br /> However, there is a special place for some wrestlers who have managed to be recognised not only on the national scene but also internationally. That is why, we are going to present you, those who are in our opinion, are the 3 most famous wrestlers of Canarian wrestling.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Francis Pérez, el Pollito de la Frontera</h3><br /> One of the most emblematic fighters of the 90s and a legend of the Canarian Wrestling. Born on the island of El Hierro, Francis Pérez became an emblem of the vernacular sport.<br /><br /> His dedication was amazing, as he trained every day of the year for 7 hours and with his 1.96 and 150 kilos he became a real machine to knock down opponents in the Canarian Wrestling of the time. He retired very early in 2007, at the age of 33, due to various back problems.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Juan Espino, el Trota</h3><br /> One of the references of the Canarian Wrestling in recent years. His family has been linked for generations (his grandfather and his father were wrestlers) to this sport. He reached the highest level within Canarian wrestling (A), winning numerous collective and individual titles during his years as a wrestler, making him a legend.<br /><br /> In addition, he has spread the name of the Canary Islands and the Canarian Wrestling all over the world, becoming a reference in other types of wrestling, such as the Korean or the Senegalese, and winning titles.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Juan Barbuzano Martin</h3><br /> He tried his chances in various types of fighting, standing out mainly in Canarian Wrestling. He is considered to be the first great wrestler of the contemporary era.<br /><br /> At the age of 15 he had his first great moment knocking down an already famous wrestler like Miguel Armas three times in a row. From then on, Barbuzano had great performances in the Canarian Wrestling of the 60s and 70s, knocking down 7 of the 12 members of a team, winning championships and individual prizes.<br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Canarian Wrestling: heritage of the Canary Islands</h2><br /> Canarian sports have been consolidated over the years within the archipelago’s panorama, but none of them have had the repercussion that the Canarian Wrestling has obtained.<br /><br /> Since the 1980's, Canarian Wrestling has been growing as a structure of teams, infrastructures, and money that is invested in it until what it is today, a consolidated sport rooted in Canarian tradition.<br /><br /> However, it is more than just a sport of 12 against 12, where you have to knock down an opponent to win. It is culture, a symbol of Canarian identity, of traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation, becoming part of the cultural heritage of the Canary Islands.<br /><br /> In short, Canarian Wrestling must be cared for, pampered and continue to be transmitted from parents to children with the firm intention of keeping traditions intact and that visitors who come to the islands every year learn a little more about this vernacular sport." ["titulo_de_pagina"]=> string(65) "What is Canarian Wrestling 【 GUDE 2024】 | Villa Gran Canaria" ["metatag_descripcion"]=> string(162) "Discover here ⬆️ Canarian Wrestling, its history, how it is practiced, the techniques and the famous wrestlers. ✅ Learn more on the culture of the Canaries." ["experience_type"]=> string(1) "3" ["short_description"]=> string(177) "Discover everything about Canarian wrestling, its history, how it is practiced, the techniques and the most famous wrestlers. Learn more about the culture of the Canary Islands." ["city"]=> string(0) "" ["related_experiences"]=> string(0) "" ["visible"]=> string(1) "1" ["draft"]=> string(1) "0" ["admin_only_section"]=> string(1) "0" ["autosaved"]=> string(1) "0" ["builder"]=> string(0) "" ["controlador"]=> string(0) "" ["precontrolador"]=> string(0) "" ["tableName"]=> string(11) "experiences" ["image"]=> array(1) { [0]=> array(13) { ["num"]=> string(4) "1327" ["order"]=> string(10) "1598354480" ["tableName"]=> string(11) "experiences" ["fieldName"]=> string(5) "image" ["recordNum"]=> string(3) "331" ["filePath"]=> string(106) "/var/www/vhosts/villagrancanaria.plandeweb.com/httpdocs/cms/uploads//cms/uploads/2020/06/Lucha-canaria.jpg" ["urlPath"]=> string(38) "/cms/uploads/2020/06/Lucha-canaria.jpg" ["info1"]=> string(0) "" ["info2"]=> string(0) "" ["info3"]=> string(0) "" ["info4"]=> string(0) "" ["info5"]=> string(0) "" ["alt"]=> string(0) "" } } ["main_image"]=> array(0) { } ["gallery"]=> array(0) { } ["breadcrumbField"]=> string(0) "" ["mainFieldBreadcrumb"]=> string(28) "All about Canarian Wrestling" } [2]=> array(28) { ["num"]=> string(3) "319" ["createdDate"]=> string(19) "2019-08-02 09:30:25" ["createdByUserNum"]=> string(1) "1" ["updatedDate"]=> string(19) "2023-02-27 16:09:45" ["updatedByUserNum"]=> string(3) "514" ["dragSortOrder"]=> string(1) "8" ["enlace"]=> string(25) "/experiences/risco-caido/" ["title"]=> string(51) "Risco Caído, a World Heritage Site in Gran Canaria" ["content"]=> string(7046) "<p style="text-align:justify;">Are you one of those who likes to do cultural activities? If so, you’ll surely be interested in making an excursion to Risco Caído, recently declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, during your holiday in Gran Canaria.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">This thousand-year-old cave is part of the group of sacred mountains of Gran Canaria, which consists of about 1,500 caves. However, Risco Caído is a special place, since its symbolism, its history and the way it shows us how life was before the conquest are unique.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Do you want to know all of its secrets? In this post we reveal one of the jewels that adorn Gran Canaria. Come on and dive into the history of the round island!</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Risco Caído, a natural work of art that you can't miss</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Nature and traces left by historical events sometimes leave us works of art to enjoy their eternal beauty.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">This is the case of Risco Caido and the Sacred Mountains of Gran Canaria Cultural Landscape, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO at its last meeting in Azerbaijan.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Rico Caído is located in the volcanic caldera of Tejeda, a place of 18,000 hectares which the Spanish author Miguel de Unamuno called ‘petrified storm’. Among these mountains, the presence of Roque Nublo, one of the best places to climb in Gran Canaria, is also worth mentioning.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Do you want to know the reasons why it’s worth going and what a visit to the caves of Gran Canaria can bring? Read on and discover that the round island hides many secrets that are worth discovering.</p><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/montan_as_sagradas_de_gran_canaria.jpg"></figure><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Discover the story behind Risco Caído</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Every corner has its story to tell us and this couldn’t be less. In every step we take through here, there are clear traces of a culture forced to mix after the Castilian conquest from the fifteenth century.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In Risco Caído you can see how the Canarian aborigines lived, as there are many cave engravings, inscriptions in Libyan-Berber as well as remains of the subsistence activities carried out by the natives.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In fact, you can clearly see that this was a civilization that knew how to make optimal use of the resources and space available to them since all the caves were used for grain storage.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Specifically, in the cave of Risco Caído there is an ‘almogarén’ where religious rituals full of magic and charm were performed, which shows us how this culture was in its origins.</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Discovery of Risco Caído</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Like all great discoveries, Risco Caído was the result of chance. It wasn’t until 1996 that the archaeologist Julio Cuenca found this archaeological and astronomical site.</p><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">How is Risco Caído</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">Within the complex that forms part of this enclave there are two caves of special significance: the C6 and C7, which are located just north of the village and were probably the sanctuary of the aborigines in the middle of the mountain.<br><br>Specifically, the C6 cave has a particular circular shape with a paraboloid dome that is rare in the rest of the caves on the island.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">But what is most remarkable about this corner in Risco Caído is that it has a channel through which sunlight or moonlight enters and is reflected on all the walls of the cave, highlighting the paintings inside and giving the place that aura of reflection typical of any sanctuary.</p><figure class="image w-full max-w-full flex flex-wrap justify-center mx-auto"><img class="w-full" src="https://villagrancanaria.com/cms/uploads/parajes_naturales_gran_canaria.jpg"></figure><h2 class="text-3xl m-0 mb-3">Other Gran Canaria caves</h2><p style="text-align:justify;">If you think that Gran Canaria is only ideal for sun and beach tourism, we have to tell you that you're very wrong.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In this island you can find very interesting natural places which have a vital importance if you want to know their history and origins.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In fact, in its mountains you can find many caves that were direct witnesses of the life of their ancestors.</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3" style="text-align:justify;">Acusa Seca cave-houses</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">They're located right in the caldera of Tejeda, being a flat space located in the middle of the mountains where you can still see the remains of the ancient civilizations that lived before the Castilian conquest.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In many of them there are still cave paintings, old barns and the tombs of the ancient Canarians. If you like vegetation and nature, this is a place that will undoubtedly leave you with your mouth open.</p><h3 class="text-2xl m-0 mb-3" style="text-align:justify;">Cueva pintada, a natural museum</h3><p style="text-align:justify;">It's one of the most important archaeological sites in Gran Canaria. In fact, inside this cave is one of the most important examples of cave art.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">It's one of the sites where most work has been done in the whole island, since it's the result of more than 25 years of work in each of its corners to capture the historical legacy of the island's ancestors.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">One of the most curious findings of this site are the funeral and embalming rites that can be found around the cave.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Remember that all visits to this monument are guided, so if you plan to add this cave to your itinerary, you'll have to make an appointment and think about it in advance.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">At VillaGranCanaria we want your trip to the island to be perfect. To this end, we can offer you villas in the middle of nature where you can rest from your daily routine and stay near places like Risco Caído.</p>" ["titulo_de_pagina"]=> string(55) "▷ Risco Caido: World Heritage Site - VillaGranCanaria" ["metatag_descripcion"]=> string(139) "Are you going to the Canary Islands on holiday? ✅ Visit Risco Caido, one of the treasures of the island declared a World Heritage Site. " ["experience_type"]=> string(1) "3" ["short_description"]=> string(138) "Are you going to the Canary Islands on holiday? Visit the Risco Caído, one of the treasures of the island declared a World Heritage Site." 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