Unknown History & Heritage Guide 2025
Journey through the fascinating history and heritage sites of Unknown.
Historical Timeline
Key moments in Unknown's history.
The Guanche Civilisation
The Canary Islands were inhabited by a Berber people known collectively as the Guanches (from Tenerife's 'Guanche' tribe, applied to all island peoples). Arriving from North Africa, possibly 3,000–5,000 years ago, they were Stone Age people who lived in caves and simple stone structures. Each island had its own kingdom, language, and customs. They practiced mummification, kept livestock, and cultivated gofio (toasted grain). Archaeological evidence suggests they had knowledge of astronomy. The Guanches had no knowledge of navigation and did not know other islands existed.
Spanish Conquest
Jean de Béthencourt, a Norman nobleman serving the Castilian crown, began the conquest of the Canary Islands in 1402, starting with Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. The larger islands — Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and La Palma — with their larger and more warlike Guanche populations, resisted until 1496. The conquest was brutal, with Guanches killed, enslaved, or absorbed into the colonial population. The last major Guanche resistance ended at the Battle of Acentejo (Tenerife) in 1495.
Columbus and the New World
Christopher Columbus stopped at the Canary Islands on all four of his voyages to the Americas, using them as a final resupply and repair point before crossing the Atlantic. He is believed to have stopped at La Gomera (where he knew the governor, Beatriz de Bobadilla) and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The Casa de Colón in Las Palmas commemorates this connection. The islands became vital stepping stones in the Age of Exploration and trade between Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
Piracy, Trade, and Agriculture
The Canary Islands became prosperous through sugar, wine, and later banana and tomato exports. They were also targets for pirate raids — Sir Francis Drake attacked Las Palmas in 1595, and the Dutch Admiral Pieter van der Does sacked the city in 1599. The islands developed a strategic importance as a waypoint for the Spanish treasure fleets from the Americas. Garachico on Tenerife was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1706.
British Influence and Tourism
British merchants played a significant role in the Canary Islands economy in the 19th century, particularly in the wine and banana trade. The first tourists began arriving, drawn by the mild climate. The Grand Canary Hotel opened in Las Palmas in 1884, marking the beginning of the tourism industry. In 1897 the Canary Islands were divided into two provinces: Las Palmas (eastern) and Santa Cruz de Tenerife (western).
Spanish Civil War
General Francisco Franco launched his military coup against the Spanish Republic from the Canary Islands on 17 July 1936, flying from Las Palmas to Morocco to take command of the Army of Africa. The Canary Islands quickly came under Nationalist control during the subsequent Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), which resulted in Franco's dictatorship lasting until 1975.
Autonomy and Modern Era
After Franco's death in 1975, Spain transitioned to democracy. The Canary Islands were granted the status of Autonomous Community in 1982 under the Spanish Constitution, with their own parliament (Parlamento de Canarias) based in both Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife (alternating). The islands joined the EU as part of Spain in 1986 (with special status regarding VAT and customs). La Palma's Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted in September 2021, causing significant destruction and displacing thousands of residents.
Top Historical Sites
Must-visit places for history enthusiasts.
Casa de Colón (Columbus House)
A beautiful 15th-century palace in Vegueta historic district where Columbus may have stayed before his first voyage. Now a museum with exhibits on the Age of Discovery, Canarian pre-history, and colonial history.
Cueva Pintada de Gáldar
A remarkable Guanche cave with pre-Hispanic geometric paintings, discovered in 1873. A UNESCO tentative World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological sites in the Canary Islands.
Museo Canario
The most important archaeological museum in the Canary Islands, housing the largest collection of Guanche artefacts including skulls, mummies, pottery, tools, and cave paintings.
Castillo de la Luz
A 15th-century fortress that defended the port of Las Palmas from pirate attacks, including raids by Drake and the Dutch fleet. Now a cultural centre.
Castillo de San Juan Bautista
A 17th-century coastal fort in Santa Cruz that famously repelled the British Royal Navy Admiral Horatio Nelson in 1797. Nelson lost his right arm in the failed assault.
Pirámides de Güímar
Six enigmatic stepped pyramids of uncertain origin and purpose. Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl investigated them and controversially suggested links to pre-Columbian American civilisations. Now an ethnographic park.
Complete History Guide
In-depth historical context, site guides, and self-guided tour routes.
Museums & Collections
Where to experience history indoors.
National Museum
Houses the country's most significant archaeological finds, artifacts, and historical collections spanning millennia.
Heritage Centers
Regional museums and cultural centers showcase local history, traditions, and ethnographic collections.
Sites by Historical Era
Explore history period by period.
Ancient Period
Pre-history to 500 AD
Archaeological sites, ancient ruins, and prehistoric settlements reveal early human activity in the region.
Medieval Period
500 AD - 1500 AD
Fortresses, religious monuments, and trade route remnants from the era of empires and kingdoms.
Colonial Period
1500 AD - 1900 AD
Architecture and sites reflecting foreign influence and the blending of cultural traditions.
Modern Era
1900 AD - Present
Independence monuments, contemporary museums, and sites of recent historical significance.
Guided Historical Tours
Get deeper insights with expert guides.
Walking Tours
Explore historical neighborhoods on foot with knowledgeable local guides who bring the past to life.
Day Tours
Full-day excursions to major historical sites with transportation, guide, and often lunch included.
Private Guides
Hire a private guide for personalized exploration tailored to your specific historical interests.
Book guides through reputable agencies or your hotel to ensure quality and safety.
English-speaking guides may need to be booked in advance, especially in less touristy areas.
Discover Unknown's Past
Get our complete history guide with detailed site information, historical context, and self-guided tour routes.
Download History Guide