The district of Vegueta in Gran Canaria is one of the essential visits you should make if you are sightseeing in Las Palmas. You should not miss the chance to walk through the cobbled streets of this magical historic district, where several of the island’s most emblematic sites are located.
Known as the founding heart of the capital, the district of Vegueta in Gran Canaria is one of the most visited destinations among tourists, thanks to its picturesque charm. Would you like to discover it?
Vegueta District in Gran Canaria
On 24 June 1478, a ship sent by the Crown of Castile landed in what is now known as the Port of La Luz, led by Captain Juan Rejón, who established a camp in the well-known Guiniguada Ravine.
This camp was named La Real de Las Palmas, and it gradually expanded through what we now know as the district of Triana and the district of Vegueta, reaching the area where San Telmo Park is located today.
Much of the population was concentrated in both emblematic districts during the 16th and 17th centuries, although the most important and institutional buildings were located in Vegueta.
What to See and Do in Vegueta in Gran Canaria
The historic district of Vegueta in Gran Canaria hides, among its cobbled streets, different historic and modern corners that are well worth visiting.
As the founding centre of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Vegueta brings together several historical traces from different moments and cultures that shaped the history of the island. Below, we show you the most interesting places within the historic district:
Vegueta Market
Vegueta Market has existed since 1787. It was a centre where much of the island’s commercial activity took place. Located opposite the Pérez Galdós Theatre, Vegueta Market in Gran Canaria is on the avenue that divides it from the district of Triana.
Today, you can find all kinds of food products such as meat, fish and seafood, although it stands out for its wide variety of exotic fruits. So, if you enjoy visiting this type of market, Vegueta Market opens its doors from Monday to Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Atlantic Centre of Modern Art (CAAM)
Are you passionate about contemporary art? Then, in the district of Vegueta in Gran Canaria, you will find the Atlantic Centre of Modern Art (CAAM), where you can enjoy original and carefully curated exhibitions that aim to offer a representative sample of current modern art, as well as special events and concerts.
Its opening hours are from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday. Admission is completely free, although if you attend a concert, there may be a ticket cost, which you can check at the box office or on the website.
Plaza de Santo Domingo
One of the most beautiful corners in the historic district of Vegueta is Plaza de Santo Domingo, where a majestic parish church bearing the same name is located. This building dates back to the 16th century and was once a Dominican convent.
In October, one of the most important celebrations in Gran Canaria takes place: the Romería del Rosario. During this festivity, several of the district’s emblematic sites are visited.
Museo Canario
If you are interested in learning more about the history of the ancient inhabitants of the Canary Islands, you should visit the headquarters of the Museo Canario, located in the Vegueta district of Las Palmas.
Museo Canario is a scientific society that houses interesting archaeological and ethnographic remains found in emblematic places such as El Charco de La Paloma and Barranco de Guayadeque.
You can visit the Museo Canario in the Vegueta district of Gran Canaria from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; on Saturdays and Sundays, it closes at 2 p.m.
Plaza and Chapel of Espíritu Santo in Las Palmas
Near the former headquarters of the municipal offices, you will find the Plaza and Chapel of Espíritu Santo, where different stately buildings stand.
This tourist corner is notable for its fountain, decorated with Hispanic-style architecture. Next to the fountain, an araucaria and a dragon tree were planted, representing the brotherhood between the Canary Islands and America.
Casa de Colón in Vegueta
This beautiful architectural work is more than 500 years old and functions as a study centre and museum where the history of the capital and its relationship with America is shared through representative art displays.
It also has a special exhibition on the voyages of Christopher Columbus and his time in the Canary Islands. This museum opens from Monday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Santa Ana Cathedral and Square
The majestic Santa Ana Cathedral was built in 1497, although the work was not completed until the end of the 20th century. It combines Neoclassical, Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, reflecting the different periods during which construction continued.
Today, both the cathedral and Plaza de Santa Ana are two of the most important landmarks in Gran Canaria.
During your visit to the Vegueta district in Gran Canaria, we recommend going up to the top of Santa Ana Cathedral, as the panoramic view of the city is truly incomparable.
Restaurants in Vegueta in Gran Canaria
After an extensive walk through the cobbled streets of the Vegueta district in Gran Canaria, you will need to recharge your energy in a bar or restaurant before continuing to discover its picturesque corners.
If you are looking to try typical Canarian food, in Vegueta you will find numerous places mainly located between Calle La Pelota and Calle Mendizábal.
Visiting the historic district of Vegueta in Gran Canaria is one of the best ways to discover the history, culture and architecture of the capital. Walking through its cobbled streets, visiting its museums and enjoying its gastronomy is an essential experience during your trip to Gran Canaria.
If you are organising your stay on the island, Lopesan Hotel Group has hotels in the south of Gran Canaria, from where you can visit Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Vegueta and other emblematic places on the island, combining culture, nature, beach and relaxation during your holidays.
