Las Palmas Live Cam

Capital city of this province and of the island of Gran Canaria


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History

The Province of Las Palmas is located in the eastern part of the Canary Islands, Spain. The province has a rich history, dating back to prehistoric times.

The first inhabitants of the Canary Islands were the Guanches, who were a group of indigenous people that lived on the islands before the arrival of the Spanish in the 15th century. The Guanches were skilled farmers, fishermen, and hunters, and had their own language, culture, and religion.

In 1402, the Spanish arrived on the island of Lanzarote and began colonizing the Canary Islands. The conquest of the islands was a slow process that took several decades. The Spanish established a number of towns and cities on the islands, including Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which was founded in 1478.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Canary Islands became an important stopover for ships traveling between Europe and the Americas. The islands also became a center for the sugar trade, and sugar cane plantations were established on the islands.

In the 19th century, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria became an important port for ships traveling to and from Africa and the Americas. The city also became a center for trade and commerce, and many wealthy merchants and businessmen established themselves in the city.

During the Spanish Civil War, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria remained loyal to the Spanish Republic, and the city was heavily bombed by the Nationalists. After the war, the city began to rebuild and modernize. Today, the Province of Las Palmas is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and rich history. The province is home to many important cultural sites, including the Cueva Pintada Museum in Gáldar, which houses pre-Hispanic Guanche art, and the Cathedral of Santa Ana in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which dates back to the 15th century.

Top Tourist Attractions

The Province of Las Palmas is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning beaches, warm climate, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in the province:

  • Playa del Inglés: This is one of the most popular beaches in the province, located on the southern coast of Gran Canaria. It's a beautiful, long stretch of golden sand with crystal-clear waters, and it's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
  • Las Canteras Beach: This is another stunning beach located in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and it's known for its clear waters and fine sand. It's a popular spot for both tourists and locals, and it's surrounded by bars, restaurants, and shops.
  • Timanfaya National Park: Located on the island of Lanzarote, this national park is known for its dramatic landscapes and unique geology. Visitors can take a guided tour through the park and see volcanic craters, lava fields, and geysers.
  • Cueva Pintada Museum: Located in the town of Gáldar on Gran Canaria, this museum houses pre-Hispanic Guanche art and artifacts. It's a fascinating insight into the culture and history of the Canary Islands.
  • Vegueta: This is the historic district of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and it's home to many beautiful colonial buildings and museums. Visitors can take a walking tour through the streets and see the Cathedral of Santa Ana, the Casa de Colón, and the Plaza de Santa Ana.
  • Puerto de Mogán: Known as the "Venice of the Canaries," this charming fishing village on Gran Canaria has narrow streets, small bridges, and colorful houses. It's a great place to stroll around, take in the atmosphere, and enjoy a seafood meal.
  • Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo: This botanical garden on Gran Canaria is home to over 500 plant species from the Canary Islands and other parts of the world. It's a peaceful and beautiful place to walk around and admire the flora and fauna.
  • Parque Nacional de Garajonay: Located on the island of La Gomera, this national park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to an ancient laurel forest. Visitors can take hiking trails through the forest and see stunning views of the island.

Climate

The Province of Las Palmas has a subtropical climate, which is characterized by mild to warm temperatures throughout the year, with little seasonal variation. The province experiences pleasant weather conditions with plenty of sunshine and low humidity levels.

In general, the average temperature in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the capital city of the province, ranges from 19°C (66°F) in winter to 26°C (79°F) in summer. The coastal areas of the province have an average temperature that ranges between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F) throughout the year.

The sea temperature in the province ranges from 19°C (66°F) in winter to 23°C (73°F) in summer, making it a great destination for swimming, surfing, and other water activities.

The province experiences trade winds from the northeast, which can bring some rainfall, especially during the winter months. However, the amount of rainfall in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is relatively low, with an annual average of 155 mm.

Overall, the climate in the Province of Las Palmas is considered one of the best in the world, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a mild and sunny climate.

Geography

It comprises two main islands: Gran Canaria and Lanzarote, as well as several smaller islands and islets.

Gran Canaria is the largest island in the province and is known for its varied landscape, which includes beaches, sand dunes, forests, and mountains. The island is roughly circular in shape and has a diameter of about 50 km. Its highest point is the Pico de las Nieves, which stands at 1,949 meters (6,394 feet) above sea level.

Lanzarote, on the other hand, is a more volcanic and rugged island, with a landscape of volcanic cones, lava fields, and cliffs. It is located about 140 km northeast of Gran Canaria and has a surface area of approximately 845 square kilometers. Its highest point is the Peñas del Chache, which stands at 670 meters (2,198 feet) above sea level.

The smaller islands and islets that make up the Province of Las Palmas include Fuerteventura, La Graciosa, Alegranza, Montaña Clara, Roque del Este, and Roque del Oeste. These islands are all located to the northeast of Gran Canaria and Lanzarote and are known for their natural beauty and biodiversity.

Overall, the geography of the Province of Las Palmas is diverse and stunning, with a mix of volcanic landscapes, beaches, mountains, and forests. It is a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor activities and natural beauty.