AGOIMES TOWN GRAN CANARIA

In the east of the island, at the mouth of the Barranco de Guayadeque, is the town of Aguimes, surrounded by terraced hills. This administrative centre of an area famous for fruit and vegetables was once, from 1483 to 1811, the seat of the bishops of Gran Canaria, whose citizens enjoyed privileges not extended to the rest of the island. The imposing neoclassical church of San Sebastian is testimony to its early importance. A small square just above the church, surrounded by dark ficus trees, is a pleasant spot for civic events and festivities and the lively carnival in February.

The area surrounding Aguimes, dotted with caves and cave dwellings, supported an extensive population in prehispanic times. Today the town boasts a famous team of Canarian wrestlers, Union Aguimes.