The city of Arucas is part of the province of Las Palmas with a distance of only 17km separating the two in the island of Gran Canaria. Here you’ll find a wide range of patrimony that is worth going to see. The city is adorned with lots of greenery which brings it a really pleasant atmosphere.
The city is comprised of 14 neighbourhoods and is home to 38.000 habitants that are called “arquenses” who get the pleasure of soaking up the gems of Arucas every day.
Situated in a valley, the municipality has a rich ancient history, however, is now more known for its reconstruction in 1480. It is also a very well-known area for sugarcane cultivations which is used to produce rum which is the main source of its economic wealth.
Arucas literally means “land of blessing” (tierra de bendición) and it comes from the term Arehuc or Arehucas, which is what its famous brand of rum is called.
So, what is there for you to see? Its 15th century reconstruction has left us with some of its most representatives characteristics.
One of them being the church of San Juan Bautista, a national cultural interest also known as the cathedral of Arucas (la Catedral de Arucas). It is built on an old hermitage that was demolished in 1478. In today’s day and age, it’s the characteristic of the municipality that stands out most and is one of the prettiest on the island.
Nearby you can go and admire the square of San Juan (plaza de San Juan) where you can also find the Nuevo Teatro Viejo which is a new theatre that literally means the “New Old Theatre”, as well as the square of La Constitución where the city council building and the main market are. In both squares you admire down to a T the typical canary style art from the colonialism period.
Another few things to see are the House Gourié (Casa Gourié) and the House and Garden of Marquesado de Arucas which has also been declared a national cultural interest.
The map of this municipality lets us get to know parts of its history and elements like the Pozos de los Desaparecidos from the civil war, Las Canteras del Cerillo and the Heredad de Aguas de Arucas and Firgas.
So, when do the festivities take place in Arucas? The city’s calendar is filled with important dates and events such as the religiois festivals in honour of San Juan Bautista in the month of June, which is when the processions, bonfires, pilgrimages and concerts take place all over the city in celebration.
The best time to visit is during May and June during the Corpues Christi and the festivity of Las Alfombras where the people living there sprinkle coloured salt and sawdust in the streets.
So, if you want to get to know this precious city, there’s nothing better than renting accommodation that will truly let you enjoy your holiday. There are charming rural hotels, holiday homes, airbnb apartments and, definitely the best of all, the rural houses of Gran Canaria.
