Castillo de la Luz
Castillo de la Luz
Castillo de la Luz (Plaza del Castillo de la Luz, Las Palmas) — The grandest fortress of Gran Canaria, Castillo de la Luz was built to defend the island from attacks by pirates. It was built around 1552, and for many years was the city’s last line of defense against formidable enemies such as Sir Francis Drake of Britain, and Van Der Goes of the Netherlands.
Castillo de La Luz is impressive but nevertheless is also quite simple in design, featuring just two cylindrical watchtowers, with additional battlements. For residents of the La Isleta neighborhood, the fortress remains an important symbol. Currently, Castillo de la Luz is not open to the public, although it is worth a look even if only from the outside. Discussions remain ongoing about whether or not to transform the fortress into a naval museum in future. Admission: €4 (adult), €2 (seniors), free for children. Hours: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm (Tuesday – Saturday), 11:00 am – 2:00 pm (Sundays & holidays). Closed on Mondays.