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Gran Canaria's Central Landmarks, Canary IslandsThe Most Unusual Rock Formations, Emblematic of the Canaries
The majestic Roque Nublo, El Fraile the praying monk, and the historical Bentaiga form the fantastic landscape of unusual rock formations at the centre of Gran Canaria.
The Canary Islands were formed by massive volcanic action and the upsurging eruptions left many different sub-stratas of rock, once buried deep under the sea, exposed to the elements. Over many thousands of years, the sun, wind, and rain have eroded away at the various layers; sculpturing, like natures artists, Gran Canaria’s most famous landmarks. Distinctive Rock FormationsHigh up, overlooking the border of the huge volcanic crater of San Bartolome, are perched Gran Canaria’s three most distinctive rock formations. Roque Nublo, Roque Bentaiga, and El Fraile. To reach these graceful and majestic, natural monuments in the very centre of the island, be prepared to navigate some very, small and winding mountain roads. Gran Canaria’s Emblematic RockThe huge, jutting finger of rock called Roque Nublo, or Cloud Rock, is Gran Canaria’s most known landmark. The lonely monolith is in reality, a sixty-five metre high chunk of basalt, that has been left behind by the abrasive Canarian climate in this region. In the cooler winter months it’s possible to enjoy an energetic hike along the specially marked pathways at the base of the rock and that lead through this spectacular countryside. El Fraile or The FriarEl Fraile, or the Friar, is a fascinating rock formation, on approaching Roque Nublo it’s possible to distinguish its unique form quite easily. The craggy sillouhette of the “Praying Monk” appears to be bowing down, with cassocks flowing, in reverent prayer in front of its larger companion. Sight of the Guanche RitualsAlthough Roque Bentaiga is a smaller, less dramatic geological formation, it is steeped in Guanche aboriginal history. The isolated mountain area where this rock is to be found, was once a hallowed place of worship for the ancient race that populated Gran Canaria. In the surrounding cliffsides are many fine examples of man-made caves that were excavated by the early inhabitants, in some have been found the earliest dated examples of cave paintings known on the island. The geographical position of the caves made them a natural fortress, and Bentaiga was used as a Guanche stronghold during the Spanish invasions of the 15th Century. Museum and Interpretation CentreBecause of a variety of important finds around Roque Bentaiga, the area has been classified as an archaelogical site. Inside the small museum and interpretation centre are detailed explanations of the aborigines last stand against defeat, as well as other discoveries pertinent to Gran Canaria’s native race of people. Whilst visiting these mountainous monuments, it's worth driving just that little bit further to enjoy the wonders of Cruz de Tejeda, and the island's highest village, Artenara.
The copyright of the article Gran Canaria's Central Landmarks, Canary Islands in S Europe Travel is owned by Liz Correal. Permission to republish Gran Canaria's Central Landmarks, Canary Islands in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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