Gáldar

Overview

Nestled in the northwest corner of the island, Gáldar constitutes one of Gran Canaria’s most important links to its aboriginal past. Within the historic centre is the Cueva Pintada Museum, a keynote archaeological site home to a painted cave and various ancient artefacts. The surrounding countryside is also notable for its abundance of ravines and pine trees.

Also, if looking for a spot of privacy, make sure to visit the secluded port of Sardina, home to crystal waters and golden sands, and as far removed from the teeming resorts of the south as you’re likely to get.

History

Formerly known as Agáldar, prior to its annexation by the Castilian forces, Gáldar was one of the main aboriginal settlements on the island, and a predominant seat of political power; indeed Gáldar and was the first capital of Gran Canaria. Gáldar used to be called Agáldar, or "Royal City", Before the Spanish invasion, Galdar was also the main settlement of the Guanche people. After the invasion, Gáldar was founded in 1484. As Tenesor Semidan, an early ruler of the Canary Islands lived here, it is seen as the birthplace of the local monarchy, as well as the place where Christianity first took hold in the Canary Islands.

Economy

Traditionally, the region has always been an agricultural hotbed, producing bananas, tomatoes, onions, potatoes and corn. Livestock rearing is also prevalent, especially for the production of cheeses.

How To Get There

Buses 103 (hourly from 5.00am-10.00pm) and 105 (from 12.30am-11.30pm) run from Las Palmas. Tickets cost €2.95.
Bus 150 also connects Gáldar to the south of the island, running to Maspalomas from 7.15am-2.15pm. Tickets cost €8.85. From Maspalomas, buses run eight times a day from 09:05 to 16:05

By car, follow the GC-2 coastal run along the north coast from Las Palmas.

Sights

Cueva Pintada Museum and Archaeological Park

Located in the centre of the town, this remarkable museum includes one of the most significant cave paintings in the Atlantic region. The Painted Cave alone, which dates back to Pre-Hispanic times, attracts large numbers of visitors throughout the year.

There is also a 3D visual show depicting indigenous life before the Spanish conquest, whilst the museum also houses a number of excavated artefacts such as coins, ceramics and miscellaneous metal and glass objects.

Address: Parque Arqueológico de Cueva Pintada, Calle Audiencia 2, 35460 Gáldar, Gran Canaria Island
Telephone: +34 928 89 54 89

The museum is closed on Mondays, but open Tuesday-Saturday, 9.30-19.00 (last admission 17.30), and Sunday, 11.00-18.30 (last admission 17.00)

Iglesia de Santiago de Gáldar

Dating back to the 16th century, this gorgeous church was originally constructed ostensibly for the island’s conquistadors to be baptised—the original green font still remains. Combining Baroque motifs with primary examples of Canarian neo-classicism, within you will find several ornate sculptures and paintings.

Address: Plaza Santiago de Los Caballeros, 4, 35460 Gáldar, Gran Canaria island
Telephone: +34 928 880 721

Town Hall

It’s also worth checking out the ayuntamiento. Whilst the building dates back to the 18th century, it is almost eclipsed by the enormous adjacent dragon tree which purportedly is one of the oldest examples of drago found in Gran Canaria.

Address: C/ Capitán Quesada, 29, 35460 Gáldar - Las Palmas, Gran Canaria island
Telephone: 928 880 050/ 928 880150/ 928 880154

Casino

This casino is housed in a very impressive building. Although it isn’t really well suited to families, adults can spend a very enjoyable evening at the tables trying to hit the jackpot. This casino is more popular with locals than tourists, but visitors are very welcome to try their luck.

Mountains of Gáldar and Amagro

A visit to the municipality wouldn’t be complete without absorbing some of its glorious landscapes, best savoured from these easily accessible peaks.

Pinos de Gáldar

Following a clearly marked network of natural paths, through the dense foliage of pine trees are some magnificent views of the valleys below.

Barranco Hondo de Abajo

Situated in the heart of the municipality’s interior, this ravine offers an insight into how the island’s aboriginal cave dwellers existed. The natural views are splendid too

Activities

Diving

Diving is available both day and night from the Sardina del Norte. There are a number of places that hire out all the necessary equipment for your dive. Dives as low as 20m are available and while underwater, a vast array of fish including angel sharks, barracudas and stingrays can be seen. Thanks to a lack of dangerous rocks or currents, this is a very safe place to dive.

Museums

Casa Museo de Antonio Padrón

Dedicated to the works of the famous painter and sculptor, this fine museum has over 150 works on display.  It also contains a pleasant garden with a blue-tiled fountain as its centrepiece.

Address: Casa Museo Antonio Padrón, Calle Drago 2, 35460, Gáldar, Gran Canaria Island.
Telephone: +34 928 551 858

Beaches

Sardina del Norte

Gáldar’s coastline has a few pleasant places for a dip and bathe, the most notable being the unspoiled Sardina del Norte. Scarcely inhabited, its 400m-long beach is comprised of fine golden sands, whilst the clear waters make for excellent diving. Rarely mooted in any tourist’s itinerary, it is the perfect getaway.

Festivals

Fiesta de Santiago de los Caballeros

Held at the end of July in honour of the town’s patron saint, the week-long festivities entail a traditional procession, fireworks and even the blessing of the town’s vehicles in front of the parish church.

Other events

Three Wise Men Procession- January
Carnaval- February
Saint Isidro- May

Restaurants and Nightlife

Akin to many other small Canarian towns, Gáldar’s nightlife is a relaxed affair which usually entails supping on a glass of wine whilst watching the world go by. While this is a delightful way to spend your time, those looking to reach for the lasers until the small hours would be better off elsewhere.

Restaurante La Fonda de Juan

Situated in the heart of the town centre, this bustling restaurant serves local fare, including grilled baby goat and beef dishes; it also has a vegetarian menu. Mains range from €5-15.

Address: Bentago Semidán, 17, 35460 Gáldar, Gran Canaria Island
Telephone: +34 928 897 429

La Fragata

Situated a short drive away in the secluded port of Sardina, this restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes including a gorgeous paella de mariscos (shellfish paella). It also has a terrace section where diners can enjoy their meal within earshot of the coast.

Address: Avenida Alcalde Antonio Rosas, S/N, Gáldar 35469, Gran Canaria Island
Telephone: +34 928 550 381

Shopping

The Municipal Market is a must for foodies; held in the town centre, you can find all sorts of fresh vegetables and fish. The market is on the Calle Capitán Quesada, just off the Calle Aljirofe, which itself lies just off the GC-2.