Las Palmas was founded in 1478. Today, it’s considered an area of important historical and cultural heritage. From a historical point of view, the most interesting part is the old district of Vegueta, which was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1990.
The town has a very cosmopolitan image and feel. This is largely because it’s home to the Puerto de la Luz harbour - one of the most important in Europe. It has a massive infrastructure of hotels and holiday apartments catering to the ever-increasing tourist trade. Since the sixties, the town’s population has more than doubled in size. It now has over 400,000 inhabitants.
One of the best times to visit Las Palmas is during the carnival period (usually in February/March or else in June). The town totally transforms; it comes alive with people, music, dance, food and drink. It’s always plenty of fun. The atmosphere is warm and friendly; everyone is invited (locals and foreigners alike).
Although, thousands of foreigners flock to Las Palmas every year and many have taken up residence, it still remains authentically Spanish; it overflows with Spanish history, culture and charm.
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