The Museum and Archaeological Park of Cueva Pintada in Gáldar is a cultural treasure and arguably a must-see for people interested in archaeology. The ancient paintings on the cave walls are an important testimony to the art and expression of the ancient inhabitants of the region and offer a direct connection to the rich cultural heritage of Gran Canaria. If you are planning your holiday on this enchanting island, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Cueva Pintada and immerse yourself in its fascinating archaeological history.
What is Cueva Pintada?
The Cueva Pintada of Gran Canaria is located in Gáldar and we could say that this place is more than just an archaeological site, it is a fascinating journey through the life and beliefs of the ancient inhabitants of the island.
This painted cave museum houses a collection of cave paintings of great cultural value. Geometric shapes in shades of red, ochre and black intertwine in motifs that still hold their secrets. Triangles, rhombuses, chess boards and bands are repeated in a visual dance that invites interpretation.
In addition to their great aesthetic beauty, the paintings in Cueva Pintada could be a solar calendar. The arrangement of the drawings and their relationship to the entry of sunlight throughout the year suggest an advanced astronomical knowledge on the part of the ancient Canarians.The symbolism of the paintings, together with the discovery of offerings and burials in the cave, suggest that it was used as a sanctuary. It has even been called the “Sistine Chapel” of the aboriginal Canarians, a place where rituals were performed and where they communicated with the divine.
Source: https://www.holaislascanarias.com
Historical context
The history of Cueva Pintada in Gáldar dates back to the end of the 19th century, although it is thought to have been discovered much earlier. Around 1862, during the construction of agricultural terraces, workers accidentally stumbled upon the cave. However, the official discovery is attributed to José Ramos Orihuela in 1873, who gained access to the interior through a narrow opening in the roof.
This first discovery aroused curiosity about the site. Excavations carried out by Gregorio Chil y Naranjo between 1874 and 1875 began to reveal its archaeological potential. New excavations were carried out in 1913 by Faustino Platero y Canarias.
However, it was not until the 20th century that our knowledge of the cave took a significant leap forward, with the systematic excavations carried out by José Luis Betancor León in 1972-1973. These investigations led to the discovery of new rooms, such as the burial chamber, and provided valuable information about the occupation of the site.
At the same time as the excavations were taking place, important advances were being made in research. In 1887, René Verneau produced a detailed description of the wall painting, beginning a long process of studying the paintings and their meaning. The 1970s marked another milestone with the discovery of new areas, and the 1980s and 1990s focused on excavations outside the cave. Today, interdisciplinary studies continue to unravel the mysteries of Cueva Pintada and its surroundings.The evidence found indicates that the site was inhabited from the 5th century BC to the 15th century AD. This means that the cave was used by the ancient Canarians during a long pre-Hispanic period. Unfortunately, the site was abandoned with the Castilian conquest in the 15th century.
Archaeological features
Throughout the years of excavation, many archaeological remains have been found in Cueva Pintada. The permanent exhibition room displays a selection of these objects, which stand out for their uniqueness and abundance, and offer a unique panorama in the context of the aboriginal cultures of the Canary Islands.
Source: https://www.holaislascanarias.com
Along with the pre-Hispanic finds, imported objects have also been found, mainly from the Iberian Peninsula. These include a series of wheel-thrown pottery and metal objects such as coins, swords, knives, horseshoes, thimbles and nails.
The Cueva Pintada site is home to an immense variety of artefacts, ranging from idols to paint pots and beautifully decorated ceramic vessels. These finds offer a unique window into the aboriginal culture of the Canary Islands.
- Idols
- Paintings
- Bone Remains
- Lithic artefacts
- Ceramic Vessels
- Imported artefacts
- Archaeological structures
- Micro remains
Opening hours and prices of Cueva Pintada
Guided tours of the Canarian Museum are available every half hour, with specific timetables in English, German and French. The museum is closed on Mondays throughout the year and on certain public holidays. It is advisable to buy your ticket in advance, as capacity is limited and cash is no longer accepted: tickets can now be bought online or by card. Sundays are free for all visitors and general admission is €6, with special discounts for the over 65s, students, groups and large families.
For up-to-date and detailed information on opening times, prices and other policies, we recommend you visit the museum’s official website.
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