Las Palmas history

The history of the city of Las Palmas is a fascinating chronicle that began over five centuries ago. The city, which grew from a military encampment founded in a palm grove, eventually transformed into one of the most important ports in the Atlantic and a vibrant, cosmopolitan centre of Spain.

The official founding date of the city is considered to be June 24, 1478, when Castilian troops led by Captain Juan Rejón set up a military camp after a victory over the Guanches, the indigenous people of the Canary Islands. Initially, the settlement was named Real de Las Palmas (Royal Camp of the Palms) due to the abundance of palm groves in the area. An important milestone in the city's early history was the stopover of Christopher Columbus in 1492 during his first voyage to the Americas to repair one of his ships. Today, this event is commemorated by the "Columbus House" museum, located in the oldest quarter of the city.

Thanks to its strategic geographical location, Las Palmas quickly became a key point on maritime routes between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. This attracted not only merchants but also pirates. In 1595, the city successfully repelled an attack by English corsairs under the command of Francis Drake, and in 1599, it withstood an assault by the Dutch fleet. Economic prosperity began in the 19th century when the port of Puerto de la Luz became a crucial coaling station for steamships crossing the Atlantic, contributing to the rapid growth of the city and an influx of people from all over the world.

From the very beginning, Las Palmas developed as a multinational city. Its historic centre consists of two main districts, separated by the former bed of the Guiniguada ravine:

• Vegueta — the oldest part of the city, where the main historical monuments are concentrated, including the Cathedral of Saint Anne and Plaza de Santa Ana. This quarter, with its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, is a candidate for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
• Triana — originally a commercial district that began to be actively developed in the 18th and 19th centuries. Local and foreign merchants settled here, which defined its more affluent and eclectic architectural appearance.

Today, Las Palmas is not only a major transport hub and a popular tourist destination but also a city with a rich cultural heritage. Here, historical buildings coexist harmoniously with modern life, creating a unique atmosphere that attracts travellers from across the globe.

Key Milestones in the History of Las Palmas

The history of the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a journey from a small military encampment to one of the largest cities and ports in the Atlantic. Here are the main events that shaped its character.

• 1478 — Foundation of the city. On June 24, the Castilian commander Juan Rejón established the military camp "Real de Las Palmas" following a battle with the indigenous population — the Guanches.
• 1492 — Visit of Christopher Columbus. The great navigator made a stop in the city during his first expedition to the Americas to repair one of his ships.
• 1595 — Repelling Francis Drake's attack. The city garrison successfully defended Las Palmas against an attack by a squadron of English corsairs commanded by Francis Drake and John Hawkins.
• 1599 — Attack by the Dutch fleet. The city was captured and partially destroyed by the Dutch; however, this event stimulated the subsequent strengthening and development of defensive fortifications.
• 1852 — Creation of a free trade zone. By royal decree, a free trade regime was introduced at the port of Puerto de la Luz, giving a powerful boost to the city's economic development and turning it into a major international port.
• 1883 — Start of construction of Puerto de la Luz. The construction of modern port facilities made Las Palmas a key refuelling point for vessels crossing the Atlantic.
• 1927 — Division of the Canary Islands. The archipelago was divided into two provinces, and Las Palmas became the capital of the province of the same name, which includes the eastern islands (Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura).
• 1960s — Beginning of the tourism boom. The development of air travel and beautiful beaches, such as Las Canteras, marked the beginning of the city's transformation into a popular international resort.
• 1982 — Status as a co-capital. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, together with Santa Cruz de Tenerife, received the status of capital of the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands.
• 1989 — Foundation of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The opening of the university strengthened the city's status as an educational and cultural hub of the archipelago.

Stages of Development: From Outpost to Metropolis

The development of Las Palmas has always been defined by its unique position at the crossroads of maritime routes. The city was formed in waves, each leaving its mark on the economy and architecture, transforming it into a cosmopolitan centre of the Atlantic. Here are the key transformations that defined the modern look of the capital of Gran Canaria:

• Introduction of the "Porto-Franco" Regime (1852)

  The enactment of the law on free ports became a powerful economic catalyst. Exemption from customs duties attracted international capital and trading companies to the city. This decision laid the foundation for commercial prosperity and shaped the open, mercantile character of the local economy.

• Construction of Puerto de la Luz Harbour (1883)

  The creation of a modern deep-water port was a turning point in urban planning. The city began to grow rapidly towards the north, connecting the historic centre with the La Isleta peninsula. The port turned into a key refuelling station for ships in the Atlantic, ensuring an industrial leap for the region.

• Formation of the "British Quarter" Ciudad Jardín (Late 19th Century)

  The active presence of British merchants led to the creation of the unique "Garden City" (Ciudad Jardín) district. This was the first example of comprehensive elite development with villas in the English style, introducing new standards of urbanism and a European lifestyle to Spain.

• Urbanisation of the "Upper City" (Mid-20th Century)

  Due to a demographic explosion, the city could no longer fit on the coastal plain and began to "climb" the hills. The development of the Ciudad Alta (Upper City) districts forever changed the panorama of Las Palmas, creating a complex two-level metropolis structure with tunnels and winding roads.

• Tourist Transformation of the Coast (1960s)

  The development of air travel and mass tourism radically changed the Las Canteras beach area. The construction of hotels, promenades, and leisure infrastructure diversified the economy, making the service sector the second most important engine of development after the port.

• Creation of the University (1989)

  The founding of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria became a crucial cultural milestone. The establishment of its own higher education institution halted the departure of young people to the mainland and turned the city into an intellectual centre of the archipelago, stimulating innovation and cultural life.

The architectural appearance of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a kaleidoscope of styles reflecting its rich five-century history. From colonial buildings in the oldest quarters to bold contemporary structures on the coast, the city represents a living museum of urban development, where each era has left its unique mark.

Late Gothic and Colonial Style (15th–17th Centuries)

The historic heart of the city, the Vegueta district, is the starting point of Las Palmas' architectural chronicle. Founded in the late 15th century, it has preserved its original layout with narrow cobblestone streets and squares.

• Cathedral of Saint Anne: This is the most significant structure of the era. Its construction began in 1497 and spanned several centuries, resulting in a blend of different styles in the cathedral's appearance. The interior is executed in the spirit of Atlantic Gothic with high vaults and columns resembling palm trees, while the façade acquired Neoclassical features in the 18th century.
• Colonial Architecture: Buildings of this period, such as the Columbus House (Casa de Colón), are characterised by stone façades, carved wooden balconies, and cosy inner courtyards (patios), reflecting Andalusian and Portuguese influences.

Neoclassicism and Eclecticism (18th–19th Centuries)

With the growth of the port and trade, the centre of city life shifted to the neighbouring Triana district, which became the quarter of wealthy merchants. This led to the appearance of more luxurious and diverse developments.

• Pérez Galdós Theatre: After renovations, the theatre became one of the symbols of the district, combining classical and modernist elements.
• Gabinete Literario: Located on Plaza de Cairasco, this building is a striking example of Neoclassicism with elements of Art Nouveau, reflecting the cultural ambitions of the city at that time.
• Calle Triana: The main pedestrian artery of the district is lined with buildings in an eclectic style, where classical forms sit side by side with decorative Art Nouveau elements.

Modernism and Rationalism (20th Century)

In the 20th century, the city expanded actively. The architecture of this period is highlighted by the legacy of architect Miguel Martín-Fernández de la Torre, who created the unique "Neo-Canario" style, combining rationalism with traditional Canarian motifs.

• Hotel Santa Catalina: A classic example of the "Neo-Canario" style, demonstrating harmony with the surrounding landscape and the use of local materials.
• Ciudad Jardín District: The "Garden City", designed under the influence of British urban planning ideas, features villas in Rationalist and Modernist styles, surrounded by greenery.

Contemporary Architecture (Late 20th – Early 21st Centuries)

Modern Las Palmas strives to create new architectural symbols that emphasise its connection with the ocean and its status as a cultural centre.

• Alfredo Kraus Auditorium: Built in 1997 according to the design of Óscar Tusquets, this building has become the city's calling card. Its location at the tip of Las Canteras beach and the massive window behind the stage, opening a view to the Atlantic Ocean, make it one of the most impressive concert halls in the world.

Notable Figures Connected with Las Palmas

The city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has been the birthplace or an important location in the biography of many famous figures who have left a mark on the history and culture not only of the Canary Islands but of all Spain and the world.

• Juan Rejón (15th Century)

  Castilian Commander. Founder of the city of Las Palmas. In 1478, he led the expedition that established the military camp "Real de Las Palmas", marking the beginning of the history of the modern capital of Gran Canaria.

• Christopher Columbus (1451–1506)

  Navigator and Explorer. Although Columbus was not a native of the city, Las Palmas played a key role in his expeditions. He stopped here in 1492 during his first voyage to the Americas to repair the ship "Pinta". Today, the city is home to the "Columbus House" museum, dedicated to his visits.

• Benito Pérez Galdós (1843–1920)

  Writer. One of the greatest Spanish novelists of the 19th century and a representative of realism. Born in Las Palmas, and although he spent most of his life in Madrid, his Canarian origins were often reflected in his work. The city's main theatre bears his name, and a museum is open in the house where he was born.

• Néstor Martín-Fernández de la Torre (1887–1938)

  Artist. A prominent representative of symbolism and modernism in Spanish painting. Born in Las Palmas, he dedicated a significant part of his work to Canarian culture and nature. The Museo Néstor is located in the city, housing a large collection of his works.

• Juan Negrín (1892–1956)

  Politician and Scientist. A native of Las Palmas and a prominent political figure who served as Prime Minister of the Second Spanish Republic during one of the most difficult periods of its history (1937–1945). Before his political career, he was a renowned physiologist.

• Alfredo Kraus (1927–1999)

  Opera Singer (Tenor). A world-famous opera performer born in Las Palmas. Considered one of the best lyric tenors of the 20th century. The famous "Alfredo Kraus Auditorium" concert hall, which has become one of the architectural symbols of the city, is named in his honour.

• Javier Bardem (born 1969)

  Actor. One of the most famous contemporary Spanish actors and an Oscar winner. Born in Las Palmas into a family with long-standing acting traditions, he achieved global recognition thanks to his roles in Spanish and Hollywood cinema.