Plaza Mayor de Santa Ana (Main Square of Santa Ana), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (must see)

Santa Ana Square is the historic center of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, located in the Vegueta district. Established in the late 15th century after the Castilian conquest, it was one of the first planned squares in the Canary Islands and quickly became the city’s main civic and religious hub. From the beginning, it was designed as a central gathering space where administrative, religious, and social life would come together, and that role is still visible today in the buildings that surround it.

As you enter the square, your attention is naturally drawn toward the eastern side, where the façade of the Cathedral of Santa Ana dominates the space. Its twin towers and balanced Neoclassical design stand out clearly thanks to the wide, open layout of the square. In the center, you can also notice the group of bronze dog statues, which have become one of the most recognizable features of the square. These statues are linked to the origin of the name “Canary Islands,” derived from the Latin word canis, meaning dog, and they add a distinctive visual element to the otherwise formal setting.

Looking around the square, the surrounding buildings help explain its historical importance. On the northern side, you can see the Bishop’s Palace, which emphasizes the strong religious presence centered around the cathedral. On the western side, the City Hall reflects the administrative function of the square and the role it has played in local governance for centuries. The arrangement of these buildings creates a balanced composition, where religious and civic institutions face each other across the open space.

If you spend a bit more time in the square, you may notice how its design influences the atmosphere. The broad, open paving allows clear views in every direction, while the surrounding façades create a sense of enclosure without feeling crowded. During the day, sunlight reflects off the pale stone, giving the square a bright appearance, while in the evening it becomes a more relaxed meeting place with people gathering near cafés and along the edges.