The largest city on the Canary Isles is on Gran Canaria and has a population of 355,000 and a totally original and unique architecture. The cathedral, on which construction work began following the discovery of America, has a Gothic and Neo-classical style. It stands on the lovely square "Santa Ana", which is where the archiepiscopal palace and several other buildings in the distinctive 'Canary' style are also situated. The "Barrio de la Vegueta" area stands out due to its many manor houses, which show the influence of the Latin American colonial style. Sights include: the "Centro Atlantico de Arte Moderno" which has an important collection of contemporary art.

Tips for excursions

The Angostura valley and Bandama crater

The excursion begins with a trip into the old town of Las Palmas. A visit to the Casa de Cólon from the year 1492 with its maritime museum is next on the agenda. The participants will then pass the cathedral of Las Palmas on their way into the mountains. There is an opportunity to admire the picturesque little village of Santa Brigada at 488 m above sea level with picturesque views over Las Palmas. A short stop is then planned in the caves of Artiles. The excursion programme is then rounded off by a visit to the crater of Bandama at an altitude of 213 m above sea level and a visit to the Canary Gardens.

Tejeda village and the Teror Basilica

The excursion begins with a visit to the house of Vegueta, in which Columbus stayed in 1492. The trip continues into the mountains to the 213 m deep crater of Bandama at the villages of Santa Brigada and San Mateo. This is followed by lunch at Tejeda, the island's highest point. Participants will then be driven back into the valley to spend time at the basilica of the virgin of Kiefe, Gran Canaria's patron saint. The excursion program concludes with a visit to the town of Arucus and the tropical town park, the Parque Municipal.