Unveiling the Historical Layers of Cañada de Los Gatos
Cañada de Los Gatos stands as a testament to the rich history of Gran Canaria. Located in the southwest of the island, this archaeological site reveals a timeline that stretches back over 1600 years. Initially, it served as a large coastal settlement for the ancient islanders.
Get your dose of History via Email
The site comprises 19 structures, including ten aboriginal stone houses. These houses, semi-excavated into the hillside, feature a unique circular exterior and an interior Greek cross floor plan. This architectural style provides a glimpse into the ingenuity of the ancient settlers.
Following the island’s conquest in the late 15th century, new structures emerged. These were built over the original aboriginal constructions. Unlike their predecessors, these later buildings had a simpler, circular floor plan but were of inferior construction quality.
The transformation continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. During this period, locals modified the site to accommodate the needs of farmers and livestock keepers. They added various houses and outhouses, further altering the site’s landscape.
A path from the settlement leads visitors to the Las Crucecitas cemetery. This path winds past several funeral caves, enriching the journey with historical resonance. The cemetery itself showcases the burial practices of the time, featuring stone cists and less commonly, pit graves.
Recognizing its historical significance, authorities declared Cañada de Los Gatos a Cultural Heritage Site in 1993. Today, it operates as an Archaeological Park within the Network of Archaeological Parks of Gran Canaria. This network includes several other significant sites, such as El Cenobio de Valerón and La Necropolis de Arteara.
Visitors to Cañada de Los Gatos can explore the remnants of this ancient community. Moreover, they can enjoy breathtaking views over the port of Mogán and the valley’s mouth. This site not only offers a historical journey but also connects us to the lives of those who walked these paths centuries ago.
Sources:
The on site Museum
Wikipedia
Neural Pathways is a collective of seasoned experts and researchers with a profound passion for unraveling the enigmas of ancient history and artifacts. With a wealth of combined experience spanning decades, Neural Pathways has established itself as a leading voice in the realm of archaeological exploration and interpretation.