Discovering Santa Brígida: A Visitor's Guide
Located in the eastern central region of Gran Canaria, Santa Brígida is a locality rich in history and natural beauty. Founded after the conquest of the island in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, this charming town—built on the edge of a ravine and surrounded by palm trees—was originally known as "Sataute," meaning "small palm grove." Over the centuries, Santa Brígida has been a significant agricultural and tourist hub, noted for its fruit and vegetable production.
Natural Attractions and Tourism
Vegetation and Climate: The climate and terrain of Santa Brígida support a rich and diverse vegetation. Between altitudes of 300 and 600 meters, Mediterranean trees such as olive, mastic, and dragon trees predominate. Above 600 meters, laurel forests dominate, featuring species like laurel and til. This environment creates an ideal microclimate for native flora and viticulture.
Caldera de Bandama and Monte Lentiscal: One of Santa Brígida's most stunning natural treasures is the Caldera de Bandama, an ancient volcanic crater boasting a diameter of 1,000 meters and a depth of 170 meters, named after 16th-century Flemish merchant Daniel Van Damme. Another significant feature is the Pico de Bandama, a volcano standing 574 meters high, with its last eruption occurring around 5,000 years ago.
Culture and Heritage
Historical Center and Culture: Santa Brígida's historic center features a wealth of natural and cultural heritage sites. Highlights include the parish church, the Benedictine monastery, and the El Tejar archaeological site. The church, renowned for a magnificent sculpture of Christ carved by Canary Island artist José Luján Pérez, is a must-see landmark.
The Real Casino and La Casa del Vino: The Real Casino building, established in 1900 and redesigned in post-neoclassical style in 1926, symbolizes the socio-cultural renaissance of Santa Brígida. La Casa del Vino, set in a beautifully restored historic building, is a haven for wine enthusiasts, offering tasting experiences in a setting steeped in history.
Accommodation and Activities
Hotels and Tourist Routes: By the late 19th century, Santa Brígida featured luxury hotels such as Quiney's Bella Vista Hotel and the Santa Brígida Hotel, along with several inns. Excursions, including visits to wineries, the Pago de La Atalaya, and the Caldera de Bandama, were popular. Although this thriving tourism tradition was interrupted by World War I, it slowly revived over time.
Golf and Sports: The original golf course, founded in 1891, was relocated to Bandama in 1957, becoming the Real Club de Golf de Las Palmas. This course is one of the oldest in Spain and a key sports attraction.
Vegetation and Flora
Native Flora: Santa Brígida is famed for its rich flora, fostered by its favorable climate and geographical conditions. Species such as olive, lentisc, Canary palm, and dragon tree are common. In spring, wildflowers bloom spectacularly, showcasing a diverse array of shapes and colors.
Ornamental Flora: Flowers have long been a prominent feature in many traditional Satauteño courtyards, with species such as carnations, lilies, and hydrangeas being common. This floral tradition is celebrated annually with the "Florabígida" exhibition, showcasing the wealth of local flora.
Ecomuseum Casa Panchito and Centro Locero La Atalaya
Pottery Craft: The La Atalaya neighborhood, an ancient aboriginal settlement, is renowned for its pottery tradition. The association ALUD keeps this craft alive with the Centro Locero and the Ecomuseum Casa-Alfar de Panchito, where visitors can learn about ancestral techniques and purchase handmade pottery.
Wine Tourism and Gastronomy
Wineries and Wine: Viticulture is a centuries-old tradition in Santa Brígida, initiated by Daniel Van Damme. The region is known for its ideal microclimate for grape cultivation. The "Monte Lentiscal" Denomination of Origin includes both red and white wines made from varieties like Listán Negra and Malvasía.
Casa del Vino de Gran Canaria: Located in a restored historic building, the Casa del Vino offers a unique experience for wine connoisseurs, where they can taste and learn about Gran Canaria wines.