Las Palmas Cathedral
Canarias
The Cathedral of Santa Ana, also known as the Holy Cathedral-Basilica of Canary or Cathedral of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is a Roman Catholic church located in the historic Vegueta neighborhood of Las Palmas, Canary Islands. It serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Canarias and is situated next to the Plaza Mayor of Santa Ana. Construction began around 1500 under Bishop Diego de Muros, with architect Don Diego Montaude initially designing it in the Gothic pointed style. The cathedral was first completed in 1570, though construction and refurbishments continued into the 18th century under architect Diego Nicolás Eduardo, who maintained the Gothic style for the extensions. The cathedral's architecture features a nave with double aisles, pseudo-transepts, and a sanctuary, with distinctive palm-tree imitation piers and sexpartite vaulting. It combines Gothic interiors with a Neoclassical exterior due to the prolonged construction period. The cathedral houses important artworks, including the Christ of Luján Pérez and the Dolorosa statue by the same artist, as well as a diocesan museum displaying sacred art. Declared a national historic-artistic monument in 1974, it remains a vital religious and cultural landmark in the Canary Islands.
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Tip: Visit the Cathedral of Santa Ana preferably in the morning to enjoy quieter surroundings and attend mass if interested. Purchase tickets in advance for guided tours to avoid queues. The cathedral offers reduced admission for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website for current opening hours and special events, especially around the feast day on November 26.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral's piers are uniquely designed to imitate palm trees, symbolizing the Canary Islands.
- •It was the only cathedral in the Canary Islands until the creation of the Diocese of San Cristóbal de La Laguna in 1819.
- •The feast of its dedication is celebrated annually on November 26.
- •The cathedral houses notable artworks by Luján Pérez, a prominent Canarian sculptor.
- •Its architecture combines Gothic pointed interiors with a Neoclassical exterior due to centuries-long construction.
History
The Cathedral of Santa Ana was commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs in 1478 and construction began circa 1497.
It was first completed in 1570 but construction halted due to funding issues.
Significant renovations and expansions occurred in the 18th century under architect Diego Nicolás Eduardo, who preserved the Gothic style.
Until 1819, it was the only cathedral in the Canary Islands.
In 1974, it was declared a national historic-artistic monument.
It underwent restoration from 1996 to 1998, during which religious services were held in a nearby Jesuit church.
Place Guide
Nave and Aisles16th century
The cathedral's nave features double aisles with four bays westward of the cross. The primary aisles reach the height of the nave, while secondary aisles are lower and used as chapels. The piers are carved to resemble palm trees, with Corinthian and Gothic influences, supporting sexpartite vaulting.
Christ of Luján Pérez18th century
A life-sized polychrome wooden sculpture of Christ crucified, crafted in the Baroque style by the Canarian sculptor Luján Pérez. It is noted for its realism and emotional expression, prominently displayed within the cathedral.
Dolorosa Statue by Luján Pérez18th century
A carved statue representing the Virgin Mary in sorrow, also created by Luján Pérez. It is an important devotional image within the cathedral's interior.
Retablo of Our Lady of AntiguaUnknown
A classicist polychrome and gilded altarpiece featuring a niche that houses the titular image, decorated with sculpted brackets and detailed ornamentation.
Pulpits by José de San Guillermo1771-1776
Artistic pulpits crafted between 1771 and 1776 by master carpenter José de San Guillermo, depicting church fathers and evangelists, showcasing high artistic value.
