We crossed from Gambia to the Canary Islands, to Las Palmas of the island Gran Canaria. No, “Grand Canary” is not a cartoon super hero. Nowadays, the Canary Islands is known as a tourist haven, but with it’s position off the Atlantic coast of Africa there’s a lot of history here.
My standard “highlights” tour started in old town. As our bus took us from the port our guide described the common issues with such tourism-centered islands – high property values and locals frustrated with surges of visitors flooding the neighborhoods. Our ship only carries 600 passengers, so it’s not so bad. Imagine the ships carrying over 6000 folks.
The old town dates from the 15th century. The Canary Islands were a major stop as ships left Europe for the newly-“discovered” Americas. They have done a good job maintaining the cobblestone streets.
Africa is only 100 km (60 miles) to the east, so it is not surprising to find stone from there used in architecture. I don’t know where this green stone is from, but I want some.
There was a union rally going on in the city square. Our guide explained that both the city mayor and island governor spoke while we were there looking at the Las Palmas Cathedral.
The below picture does not really get across how the cathedral is made from local volcanic rock. I don’t think I’ve seen other examples of using such rock carved into classic squares and columns; it’s kind of cool.
Outside the cathedral are dog statues. There is disagreement on the source of the name “Canary Islands”. When the Europeans started paying attention the African “Canarii” tribe lived here. On the other hand, the word also can derive from “canine”, as in dogs. However, our guide does not know of any indigenous species of dogs.
We then crossed the street and the architecture changed. We’ve now entered into the 19th century.
After walking down the main commercial street we jumped back on the bus and headed for the beach. Where the opera house sits. Because of course it does.
The Alfredo Kraus Auditorium really jumps out at the beach.
The opera tenor Alfredo Kraus was born in the Canary Islands. Our guide explained how he was invited to perform with the Three Tenors but refused, stating opera should not be turned into a jukebox musical. Such a decision loses you a bunch of money but gains a symphony hall and statue. Your mileage may vary.
A fun introduction to the island, and a big step up in civilization from west Africa. I have three more days of islands, with tomorrow a volcano!