From Caves to Conquistadors: The History of Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria isn’t just a beach break destination. This island is steeped in stories, shaped by ancient settlers, fierce battles, and centuries of cultural change. From its earliest cave-dwelling communities to colonial-era cathedrals and pirate scares, Gran Canaria’s past is as layered as its volcanic terrain. Let’s take a wander through time and see how it all unfolded.

🐑 The First Islanders: Meet the Canarii

Long before Spanish boots hit the sand, Gran Canaria was home to the Canarii, an indigenous people of Berber origin who likely arrived from North Africa around the 5th century BC. Isolated for centuries, they built a society adapted to island life, with traditions, farming systems, and beliefs all their own.

They lived in cave homes carved into mountainsides, stored their grain in places like Cenobio de Valerón, and left behind pottery, carvings, and burial mounds that still intrigue archaeologists today. Their connection to nature ran deep, and their presence is still felt in Canarian identity and folklore.

⚔️ Conquest and Conflict

In 1478, the Spanish Crown launched its campaign to conquer Gran Canaria. The effort began with the founding of Real de Las Palmas, now known as Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. What followed was five years of fierce resistance from the island’s native population. Leaders like Doramas and Tenesor Semidán became local legends for their defiance.

Eventually, the island was brought under Castilian control in 1483. The consequences were stark. Many indigenous Canarians were enslaved or forcibly converted to Christianity, while the land was redistributed and reshaped by colonial rule.

🏰 A New Era of Trade and Faith

Once the dust settled, Gran Canaria was transformed. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria blossomed into a strategic Atlantic port, linking Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Spanish settlers introduced crops like sugarcane, built imposing churches, and brought new architectural styles.

The Cathedral of Santa Ana, whose construction began in this era, still towers over Vegueta as a reminder of that sweeping change. Colonial and indigenous influences began to blend, giving rise to a distinct Canarian culture that continues to evolve.

🏴‍☠️ Stormy Centuries: Pirates and Prosperity

The following centuries were anything but quiet. Gran Canaria faced pirate attacks, including one by Francis Drake in 1595, along with outbreaks of disease and economic highs and lows. Cochineal dye and bananas replaced sugar as key exports, and agriculture remained vital across the island.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria grew in political and cultural importance, while the rest of the island adapted to shifting tides in trade and colonial affairs.

🗳️ The Road to Autonomy

The 20th century brought huge changes. In 1927, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria was named co-capital of the Canary Islands. Political movements grew, and after Spain’s transition to democracy, the Canary Islands gained autonomous status in 1982. This allowed more control over local affairs and helped shape a stronger Canarian identity.

Tourism expanded throughout the second half of the century, but today, there’s a growing awareness of its impact. Many residents are calling for more sustainable, respectful tourism that benefits the island without overwhelming it.

Gran Canaria continues to balance heritage with progress, welcoming visitors while fiercely protecting its natural and cultural riches.