La Luz Castle

It was built over a wooden fort built by the Captain Juan Rejón when the conquest of the Canary Islands started in 1478, in order to be used as a fortress against the Dutch and English pirates.

It is situated in the North of the island, next to the port. This fortress was originally built over a reef, being isolated in the hide tide. However, the subsequent development of the town put it in “dry land”, surrounded by buildings.

During many years, this castle was the only defence in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, until more fortresses were built along the XVI Century.

It is a square building with three levels. It has round turrets and loopholes, and you access in it through a lifting bridge. A half arch shows the Virgen de la La Luz´ s image. There is a cistern inside. The building is made of ashlar distributed on three levels.

Nowadays it is an Art centre and the naval museum of the town.