Gran Canaria Municipality of Santa María de Guía: A Traveler's Guide
Santa María de Guía is a municipality that offers a captivating blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. From the ancient granaries of Cenobio de Valerón to the picturesque town center filled with architectural delights and from the surfing waves of San Felipe beach to the serene trails of the El Brezal Reserve, there is something to captivate every traveler. The town's rich history, combined with its natural beauty and culinary heritage, makes Santa María de Guía a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Gran Canaria. Whether you are delving into its storied past, hiking through its lush landscapes, or savoring its unique cheeses, this municipality promises a rewarding and enriching experience.
General Overview
Geographic Location: Santa María de Guía is situated in the northwest region of Gran Canaria. Nestled between the municipalities of Moya and Gáldar, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean up towards the mountainous central areas of the island.
Population and Size: This municipality covers an area of approximately 42.59 square kilometers and hosts a population of around 14,000 residents. Its diverse landscapes range from rugged coastlines to verdant farmlands and lush forests.
Historical Significance: Santa María de Guía boasts a rich historical heritage. Founded immediately following the Spanish conquest of Gran Canaria, the municipality was named in honor of the Virgin of Guía, its patron saint. The area has been home to many illustrious figures, including the renowned sculptor José Luján Pérez, whose works play an integral part in local Easter Week celebrations, and musicologist and historian Néstor Álamo.
Attractions and Landmarks
Cenobio de Valerón: ´
The journey into Santa María de Guía often begins at Cenobio de Valerón, the largest and most spectacular pre-Hispanic granary on Gran Canaria. This archaeological marvel consists of nearly 300 caves dug into volcanic tuff. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the ancient agricultural practices, the native flora and fauna, and the area's volcanic geology. The nearby Camino Real de la Cuesta de Silva, an ancient pathway linking the capital town with the North, is marked with explanatory signs and is another point of historical interest.
Historic Town Centre:
A stroll through the Historic Town Centre of Guía, declared a Historic and Artistic Monument, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of past centuries. The Parish Church, built between the 17th and 19th centuries, features a Baroque façade flanked by two neo-classical towers and houses important art pieces, including altarpieces and sculptures by Luján Pérez. The House of Los Quintana, a stately building from the 16th century, along with the birthplace of Néstor Álamo and the 16th-century Hermitage of San Roque, are other significant landmarks.
La Bodega Tourist Visitor Centre:
Located within one of these emblematic buildings, La Bodega offers tourist information, samplings of the famous Guía Flower Cheese, and other local products. Visitors can also explore traditional arts and crafts, such as Canary knives carved from goat's horns and various wood carvings.
Néstor Álamo Museum:
This museum, housed in the birthplace of Néstor Álamo, provides insights into the evolution of music in the Canary Islands, from the indigenous sounds of two thousand years ago to modern influences. The various rooms of this 17th-century building showcase the life and works of Álamo, emphasizing his contributions to preserving and disseminating Gran Canaria's history and culture.
Natural Attractions:
For nature lovers, Santa María de Guía offers numerous opportunities to explore both the sea and the countryside. The rocky coastline boasts two main bathing areas: San Felipe beach, known for its excellent surfing conditions, and the natural water pools of Roque Prieto, which provide a family-friendly environment. Inland, the municipality offers beautiful scenery and recreational spaces such as the Santa Cristina and Monte Pavón areas, ideal for hiking and mountain biking. The El Brezal Special Natural Reserve, with its well-preserved bayberry and heath forest, presents a typical Canarian green landscape and a network of walking paths.
Cultural and Culinary Delights:
One cannot visit Santa María de Guía without indulging in its culinary specialties. The region is famed for its artisanal Guía Flower Cheese, a unique product made using vegetable rennet and the rich grazing lands of Canary sheep. The Casa del Queso in Montaña Alta offers tastings and sales of these cheeses, as well as an educational experience about their traditional manufacturing processes. The town also offers various craft workshops where visitors can witness the making of traditional sweets and purchase local crafts.