Santa Catalina Park is the vibrant point of convergence of the city of Las Palmas, situated right in the middle of the city, an indispensable artery to access the many different sights. If you are heading to Playa de las Canteras, the cruise terminal of Puerto de la Luz, or even the bus station, the park is a mandatory landmark during your trajectory.
The name of this popular landmark may conjure up the image of a verdant park but it actually is more of a square, with fully landscaped flower beds and lush palm trees. The buildings bounding the square date back to the 19th century and currently host an array of cultural activities. This includes the Elder and Miller buildings which belonged to a British shipping company. Today, the former warehouse harbours the Elder Science and Technology Museum. The square also serves as an excellent launching pad to explore the local shopping, culinary and night scene, such as the beautiful gourmet market of Mercado del Puerto with its gorgeous food stands, restaurants and terraces. You can also reach El Muelle Shopping Centre for some shopping, and when the sunsets, its bars. Read on to learn more about the square.
Santa Catalina: from humble beginnings to a contemporary space
The origins and the name of the square can be traced back to the 14th century when Mallorcan explorers built a very humble hermitage in honour of their patron saint, Santa Catalina (‘Catherine of Palma’). The plot remained largely unused until the 19th century when the neighbouring port started using it to store water for its activity. Later, children would come and play by the old hermitage, before the port took possession to make it into its own private park.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Gran Canaria experienced substantial economic growth and the port of Las Palmas, Puerto de la Luz, became an important commercial and shipping hub. Traders from all over the world sailed to the island, looking to partake in the thriving economy. They erected large buildings, such as the Elder and Miller building, and port facilities alongside the square. Port workers could be found in the square at all hours of the day, simply kicking back and enjoying themselves. Kiosks and outdoor cafés gradually started appearing and attracting local patrons as the city flourished. In the 1950s, the Harbour Works Board gave the site to the City Council, who spearheaded the transformation of the square into the undisputed epicentre of Las Palmas.
A stroll through Santa Catalina Park
The hustle-and-bustle of the square is largely due to its central location and proximity to numerous landmarks. It is also the main gateway to the city for visitors arriving by sea and bus thanks to the neighbouring port and bus station.
Don’t think the square only acts as a point of transit, however. It boasts several interesting places, including the Tourism Office and the Elder Science and Technology Museum. In fact, the Tourism Office dates back to 1945 and was built in true Canarian architectural tradition. Visitors are provided with a wealth of information on the city and the island so they can have a sensational holiday. The museum features interesting permanent and temporary exhibits on a range of subjects. The Miller building is a multi-purpose public space, offering a wonderful programme packed with cultural and entertainment activities. The building is also the base camp for the performers partaking in the city’s vibrant Carnaval. These two destinations promise to be fun and entertaining, especially for families with children .
Beachside paradise is also within your reach from the square. In less than 5 minutes, you can be sunbathing on the idyllic beach of Playa de las Canteras. This attractive 3-km sandy beach is protected from the Atlantic swells by a rocky, volcanic surf break, making it an ideal spot for children to paddle in the calm waters.
Another fascinating cultural polestar is La Regenta Arts Centre, situated just south of the square. This fine contemporary art centre opened its doors in 1987 and showcases unique exhibitions for all types of media, including plastic art, architecture and music. Kids and adults will be blown away by Poema del Mar Aquarium, the 12,000m2 aquarium located at the northern end of the square. Get up-close-and personal with remarkable underwater species from all around the world as you meander through the themed areas of the jungle, coral reefs and the deep sea.
For a one-stop-shop for daytime and night-time entertainment and leisure, head to El Muelle Shopping Centre. It’s a great place to shop, catch a movie and grab a bite during the daytime, while the bars and clubs offer nothing but good times till the wee morning hours.
Events at Santa Catalina Park
The square is not just a springboard to local sights. It also hosts a suite of events throughout the year, including the highly-anticipated Carnaval de Las Palmas. This festivity takes place in February and is a dazzling parade of lavishly decorated floats, lively music, exuberant performers and colourful fireworks. This sea of colour and creativity is an excellent way to experience the Canarian joie-de-vivre first hand.
There are other fun festivals organised in Santa Catalina Park, such as the international music and arts festival WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance). The 3-day festival was founded by a group of individuals, most notably the former member of Genesis, Peter Gabriel, and is held in many locations across the world. It features live music and dance performances; food vendors; and assorted activities and workshops for people of all ages, including children. If you weren’t already sold, you should know admission is free! Beer aficionados should also check out the LPA Beer & Music Festival where they can savour beers from all over the world. It takes place at the beginning of June and also features rock and indie music bands.