The winding, narrow cobbled streets of Vegueta's Las Palmas built around the majestic stone cathedral take us back to the 15th century, soon after the Spanish conquest. The cathedral's prolonged construction gave rise to a mixture of architectural styles that charts the whole history of architecture in Europe, with strange combinations made in the Canary Islands, designated as Atlantic Gothic.
Walk to the Cathedral of Santa Ana
From Plaza Cairasco in Triana, head south and it's just a five-minute walk before the cathedral appears on the Plaza de Santa Ana. One of the joys of a stroll around Vegueta is the chance to enjoy views of the Catedral de Santa Ana from every conceivable angle. To fully admire Las Palmas, Gran Canaria's cathedral, head toward the Casa Consitoriales at the far end of the square and marvel at what many consider to be the finest architectural structure of the Canary Islands.
Museo de Arte Sacro
Before you enter the cathedral, you'll pass the Patio de los Naranjos. It's an idyllic place to sit and contemplate. This is where you'll find the Museo de Arte Sacro, set on two levels around the Patio de los Naranjos. It contains a fairly standard collection of religious art and memorabilia, including centuries-old manuscripts, wooden sculptures, and other ornaments, but the setting is lovely and fragrant, with the scent of orange blossom in springtime. The Museo de Arte Sacro, as well as the cathedral, is open from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday and 10:00 am to 1:30 pm on Saturdays. It's closed on Sundays and during the Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations for Easter. The work of the Dutch masters is evidenced here, along with the Grand Canarian himself, Luján Pérez.
Inside the cathedral
The neoclassical facade contrasts with the interior, featuring lofty columns that seem to mimic the palm trees outside. The design of the cathedral follows the Pointed style, beloved of Gothic architects. The cathedral also boasts several paintings by Juan de Miranda, the island's most-respected 18th-century artist.
Up on the roof
Once you've explored within, take the lift to the top of the bell tower for a stunning wide-angle view of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and the Atlantic Ocean. Admission to the cathedral's elevator is free with a LPA Card, otherwise you must pay for the privilege. Still in Vegueta, a few steps from the Cathedral of Santa Ana, don't miss out on the Casa-Museo de Colón, a fascinating museum documenting Columbus's voyages.
