Firgas

Overview

This pretty little spa town is perhaps best known as the island’s most eminent mineral water producer, its plant shifting more than 200,000 bottles a day.

The historic centre is well worth a visit, particularly for the Paseo de Gran Canaria and the Paseo de Canaria, an exquisite 30m fountain that cascades down to a pedestrian passage below. A saunter to the main square, Plaza de San Roque, is also recommended; here you will be greeted by an early 16th century church and breathtaking views of northern Gran Canaria.

History

The town’s name derives from the aboriginal word Afurgad, which has a double meaning— “high place” or “crossroads”. Founded in 1488, the Castilian conquistadors soon set to work on profiting from the area’s abundance of natural water resources and fertile soils.

Under the custodianship of landowner Tomás Rodríguez de Palenzuela, Firgas soon began to play a vital role in the sugar industry boom of the 16^th century. During this period, Rodríguez de Palenzuela, aware of the utmost importance of the town’s natural water supply, constructed one of the first irrigation ditches on the island.

Despite the slump of the sugar industry at the beginning of the 17^th century, the town’s agricultural stock was highly valued, particularly the cultivation of potatoes and corn. The resulting growth of the town’s population and importance within the island saw it achieve independence from Arucas in 1835.

Economy

With its impressive wealth of springs and ravines, it doesn’t come as shock to learn that much of the town’s economy derives from water. The easily identifiable Firgas Water is bottled at a nearby plant and supports the largest number of employees within the entire municipality.

The 19th and 20th centuries also saw Firgas become an important producer of cochineal and bananas respectively.

How to get there

By Bus:
From Las Palmas, you can take either Global bus 201 (five daily from 06:15-19:00) or 202 (one daily, 09:15), both of which terminate at Firgas.

The Glocal bus 204 Las Palmas-Casablanca service also stops at Firgas en route (five daily from 07:00-20:15).

By Car:
If driving from Las Palmas take the GC-2 motorway along the north coast before turning onto the GC-20 at Hoya Alta, heading for Arucas. At Arucas, take the GC-300 inland road which has signposts for Firgas.

Sights

Iglesia Parroquial de San Roque (Church of San Roque)

Standing at the heart of the town’s historic centre, this parish church was built in 1502 on the site of the original San Juan Ortega hermitage. The church still contains remnants of its forebear, including its front door and the coffered central nave.

Where: Plaza San Roque, 35430 Firgas, Gran Canaria island.

Plaza de San Roque

Across from the church, this square is worth a perusal for its monument of the town’s original patron saint, Juan de Ortega. Also, don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars, as the square’s natural elevation allows for great views of northern Gran Canaria. On a clear day, you might be able to see Tenerife and Fuerteventura on the horizon.

Where: Calle Dieciocho de Julio, 35430 Firgas, Gran Canaria island.

Commemorative Fountain

Located next to the Church of San Roque, this fountain was built in 1988 to commemorate the town’s 500^th anniversary. Whilst its water displays and lights are pleasant, the light background music may be a little kitsch for some.

Where: Plaza San Roque, 35430 Firgas, Gran Canaria island.

Paseo de Gran Canaria and Paseo de Canaria (fountain)

This stunning 30m fountain was built from the area’s supply of blue stone, and uses the town’s natural water resources. Mounted on a natural inclination, it stands an emblem of the island, its side depicting the 22 heraldic shields of Gran Canaria. It also contains seven sculptures representing the seven islands within the archipelago, carved in accordance with their relative shapes.

Where: Plaza de San Roque, 35430 Firgas, Gran Canaria island.

Casa de la Cultura (House of culture)

Unquestionably the town’s most impressive edifice, it now houses various exhibitions and local theatre productions.

Address: Plaza de San Roque 3, 35430 Firgas, Gran Canaria island.

Telephone: (+34) 928 616 120

Ayuntamiento (Town Hall)

This blue stone building is a great example of 1940s neo-Canarian architecture. Its elegant balconies, constructed from local pine wood, are particularly impressive.

Where: Plaza de San Roque 1, 35430 Firgas, Gran Canaria island.

Telephone: (+34) 928 625 236

Molino del Conde (Gofio Mill)

Perched on the road from Firgas to Valleseco, this 16th century gofio mill is a quaint example of yesteryear. Within, there is an old grain roasting oven and craft shop. Gofio is still produced here; visitors are allowed a free sample. 

Where: Carretera El Molido, 35430 Firgas, Gran Canaria island.

Opening hours: 11:00-15:00 and 17:00-19:00 Monday-Friday (closed on Tuesday), 11:00-15:00 Saturday and Sunday.

Festivals

Restaurants

Aside from Canarian staple dishes such as papas arrugadas (wrinkly potatoes) and gofio (dough made of ground, roasted grain), restaurants in Firgas serve regional specialities including a vegetable stew, comprised mainly of watercress. Unsurprisingly, most meals are accompanied by a decanter of chilled Firgas Water.

Restaurante Las Brasas

A carnivore’s heaven, notable dishes include roast chicken, ribs, cutlets, and blood sausages. Popular with locals, you may need to book in advance, especially on weekends.

Where: Avenida Cruz 36, 35432 Firgas, Gran Canaria island.
Telephone: (+34) 928 625 250

Restaurante La Fuente

This tiny eatery serving traditional Canarian cuisine; main courses cost around €8.

Where: José Santos 2, 35430 Firgas, Gran Canaria island.

La Caldera Grill House

Not one for the thigh-conscious, most dishes consist of grilled and roasted meats, including steaks. Make sure to get a window seat for unforgettable views of the valleys below. It’s closed on Mondays.

Where: Calle la Caldera, 14, 35432 Firgas, Gran Canaria island.
Telephone: (+34) 928 616 140

Shopping

Firgas’ main commercial area can be found on Calle 18 de Julio, within its centre. If looking to pick up something a little more traditional, the town also has a wealth of craft shops selling everything from timples (a small string instrument resembling a ukulele, and a musical symbol of the entire archipelago) to espadrilles.