Gáldar & the Cueva Pintada
Gáldar was once the capital of the Guanartemato — the kingdom of the indigenous people (ancient Canarians) on the northern half of Gran Canaria. The historical significance is still felt today: the city has a proud self-confidence, a beautiful old town around the Plaza de Santiago, and hosts one of the most important archaeological sites in the Canaries.
Cueva Pintada (Painted Cave)
The Cueva Pintada is the most significant archaeological monument of Gran Canaria. The cave contains geometric wall paintings of the indigenous people — red, white, and black patterns (triangles, circles, squares), whose meaning is not yet fully deciphered. The Museo y Parque Arqueológico Cueva Pintada was built around the site and shows, in addition to the cave, a reconstructed village of the ancient Canarians with original houses and everyday objects. The tour (in Spanish and English) lasts about 1 hour and is excellently done. Entrance: 6€, reservation recommended.
Old Town of Gáldar
The Iglesia de Santiago de los Caballeros on the central plaza is one of the most beautiful churches in the Canaries — neoclassical style with a green baptismal chapel, where the last ancient Canarian kings were supposedly baptized. Around the plaza, you will find pretty colonial houses, cafés, and the small Mercado Municipal with local products.
Cenobio de Valerón
About 5 km east of Gáldar lies the Cenobio de Valerón — an impressive system of over 300 chambers carved into the rock, hanging like a giant beehive in a steep cliff. Long interpreted as a monastery for young priestesses (Harimaguadas), it is now considered a collective grain storage of the indigenous people: a communal warehouse where the harvest was safely stored from enemies and weather. The site is accessible via a staircase and offers a fascinating insight into the engineering skills of the ancient Canarians. Entrance: about 3€.
Sardina del Norte
The small beach Sardina del Norte (west of Gáldar) is a hidden gem: a sheltered natural beach with crystal-clear water, ideal for snorkeling and diving (there is a diving school right on the beach). Few tourists, but local families and a few fish restaurants. Nearby is the historic Faro de Sardina (lighthouse) with a view of the northwest coast.
