Discovering the Municipality of Agaete: A Travel Guide

Historical and Cultural Attractions:

1. Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria:

• One of the most iconic buildings in the area, this church features a striking silhouette perched on the cliffs overlooking the Moya ravine. Divided into three naves with two attached towers and a large rose window on its main facade, the church showcases patron figures such as San Judas Tadeo, San Antonio de Padua, and the Virgen de la Candelaria, patroness of the Villa de Moya. The foundation stone was laid on March 19, 1944, and the church was blessed on October 6, 1957.

• Open for group visits by prior arrangement with the Tourism Office. Contact: 928 612 348 or turismo@villademoya.es

1. La Casa-Museo Tomás Morales:

• Located in the birthplace and family home of the poet Tomás Morales, the museum was inaugurated in October 1976. Visitors can delve into the life and literary works of Tomás Morales through its extensive collection of documents, personal artifacts, and artwork.

• Open: Tuesday to Sunday (including holidays) from 10:00 to 18:00. Closed Mondays and on January 1 & 6, May 1, and December 24, 25, & 31. Admission is free.

• More Info: Tomás Morales Museum

1. Centro de Arte e Interpretación del Paisaje:

• Originally a rural property transformed into a cultural and artistic exhibit space, this center showcases works by artists from various disciplines. Founded by Juan Antonio de la Nuez and Olga Artiles, it opened in 2013.

• Open: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 14:00. Admission is free.

• More Info: Centro de Arte Moya

1. Heredad de Aguas:

• This late 19th to early 20th-century building underscores the historical importance of water in Moya's social construction. Its neoclassical style features a symmetrical facade with six columns and a central clock tower.

1. La Montañeta:

• An archaeological site on the southern face of La Montañeta mountain, consisting of both natural and artificial caves with various functions (granaries, homes, burial sites). The site is divided into five groups, each with unique historical and cultural significance.

1. Caldera de los Pinos:

• Standing at 1,350 meters above sea level, this is one of Gran Canaria's most recent volcanic formations. It features a circular crater 300 meters in diameter and 150 meters deep. The dramatic landscape of black and red tones contrasts beautifully with the area's Canary pine vegetation.

1. Montañón Negro:

• A natural monument at 1,500 meters in altitude, this striking geological structure is representative of Gran Canaria's recent volcanic activity. The fascinating interplay of geological elements and vegetation makes this area particularly scenic.

Natural and Scenic Highlights:

1. El Charco de San Lorenzo:

• This set of natural pools carved into volcanic rocks allows for safe swimming despite the strong local currents. The pools vary in size and depth and include sandy areas.

1. Plaza de la Candelaria:

• A scenic viewpoint offering stunning vistas of the Barranco de Moya, the Special Natural Reserve of the Tilos, and the northern coastline of the island.

1. Plaza de la Concordia:

• Opened in November 2021, this modern glass-finished plaza offers a spectacular view adjacent to the municipal cemetery of Pico Lomito.

Historical Sites:

1. Ermita de San Bartolomé de Fontanales:

• Located in the Pago de Fontanales, this old sanctuary was constructed in 1635. It underwent several expansions, with the current structure completed in 1872.

1. Acueducto de Trujillo:

• Dating back to the 19th century, this significant water infrastructure showcases stone and mud walls with numerous pillars elevating the water channel for agricultural irrigation.

1. Acueducto de Las Canales:

• Another 19th-century water infrastructure of historical value, featuring two lateral walls and four irregular stone and lime pilasters.

Archaeological Highlights and Natural Reserves:

1. El Roque:

• A rocky promontory extending 300 meters into the sea, home to rows of narrow alleyways and old houses built for plantation workers, primarily banana farmers.

1. Reserva Natural Especial de los Tilos:

• Covering 91 hectares, this area preserves a lush laurel forest, a remnant of the once extensive Doramas Jungle, harboring various endangered plant and animal species. A 2km circular trail is available for exploration.

1. Reserva Natural Especial de Azuaje:

• Integrating into the Doramas Rural Park, this narrow ravine has steep mountains, lush endemic vegetation, and flowing waters, along with architectural, ethnographic, and archaeological significance.

Local Cuisine:

1. Quesos de Moya:

• The municipality is renowned for its artisanal cheeses, including the unique 'queso de flor.' Moya's rich agricultural and livestock heritage contributes to the high quality of its cheeses, honored with numerous awards for their distinct flavor and texture.