Explore Gran Canaria’s Rich Culture at Casa de la Cultura in Arucas

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Casa de la Cultura is a cultural center located in the charming town of Arucas, on the island of Gran Canaria. Founded in 1973 with the purpose of housing the public library, this traditional Canarian house from the 17th century has become a hub for cultural activities in the area…

Visiting Casa de la Cultura is a must for anyone interested in learning more about the history and culture of Gran Canaria. The center features a variety of exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year, showcasing the works of local artists and promoting the island’s rich cultural heritage. With its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings, Casa de la Cultura is a perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon while immersing yourself in the local culture.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a unique experience during your stay in Gran Canaria, Casa de la Cultura is definitely worth a visit. With its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, this cultural center is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who steps through its doors.

Historical Background

The Casa de la Cultura is a cultural center located in the city of Arucas on Gran Canaria. The building was founded in 1973 with the purpose of housing the public library, which remained in the building until the end of 2011. The Casa de la Cultura is a traditional Canarian house from the XVII century, possessing a balconied interior patio with a magnificent example of a Drago tree.

Arucas is known as the “Ciudad de las Flores” (City of Flowers) due to its abundance of beautiful gardens and parks. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many historical landmarks, including the Casa de la Cultura. The building is considered part of the city’s patrimonio (heritage) and is a symbol of the city’s tradition and history.

The Casa de la Cultura is an important cultural center in Arucas, hosting a variety of events and activities throughout the year. It is a popular destination for visitors to the city who are interested in learning more about the local culture and history. The building’s traditional architecture and design provide a unique experience for visitors, allowing them to immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

In summary, the Casa de la Cultura is a historically significant cultural center located in the city of Arucas on Gran Canaria. Its traditional architecture and design make it a popular destination for visitors who are interested in learning more about the city’s culture and history.

Architectural Highlights

Edificio and Its Features

The Casa de la Cultura in Arucas, Gran Canaria is a stunning example of early 20th-century architecture. The building was constructed in 1915 and originally served as a school for the town’s children. The architect, Miguel Martín Fernández de la Torre, was a prominent figure in the Canary Islands’ cultural scene at the time and is known for his contributions to the Art Nouveau movement.

The building’s façade is a striking mix of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, with intricate stonework and ornate carvings adorning the exterior. The main entrance features a large archway and a set of double doors made from solid wood. The building’s roof is also noteworthy, with a steep pitch and a series of gables and dormers that add to its grandeur.

Inside, visitors will find a spacious and well-lit interior that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The building’s original classrooms have been converted into exhibition spaces, lecture halls, and a library, while the central courtyard serves as a gathering place for cultural events and performances.

Patio Interior

One of the highlights of the Casa de la Cultura is its stunning interior patio. The space is surrounded by a colonnade of wooden pillars that support the upper floors of the building. The pillars are intricately carved and feature a variety of geometric patterns and designs.

The patio is also home to a beautiful fountain, which serves as a focal point for the space. The fountain is made from stone and features a series of tiered basins that cascade water down into a central pool. The sound of the water adds to the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the patio, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Columnas De Madera

The wooden columns that support the upper floors of the Casa de la Cultura are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the building’s architects and builders. The columns are made from solid wood and are intricately carved with a variety of geometric patterns and designs.

The use of wood in the building’s construction is a nod to the traditional architecture of the Canary Islands, which often featured wooden elements in its design. The columns add warmth and character to the building’s interior, and their intricate designs are a testament to the skill and creativity of the craftsmen who built them.

Cultural Significance

The Casa de la Cultura is a cultural center located in the historic center of Arucas on Gran Canaria. This center plays a significant role in the cultural life of the municipality and is a hub for various cultural activities and events.

The Casa de la Cultura was founded in 1973 with the purpose of housing the Public Library, which remained in the building until the end of 2011. Since then, the center has been used for various cultural events, such as exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, and workshops.

The cultural center is an essential part of the cultural heritage of Arucas, as it promotes and preserves the cultural traditions and customs of the municipality. The center offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the rich cultural history of the region through various exhibitions and workshops.

The Casa de la Cultura is also a vital resource for the local community, as it provides a space for cultural and artistic expression. The center encourages the development of local talent and provides opportunities for artists and performers to showcase their work.

Prominent Locations Nearby

If you’re visiting the Casa de la Cultura in Arucas, there are several prominent locations nearby that are worth checking out. Here are a few of the top options:

The Drago Tree

The Drago Tree is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Arucas. This ancient tree is estimated to be over 1,000 years old and is considered to be the oldest living organism in the Canary Islands. The Drago Tree is located just a short walk from the Casa de la Cultura, making it a convenient stop on your itinerary.

Plaza De La Constitución

Plaza De La Constitución is a beautiful square located in the heart of Arucas. This historic plaza is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the town hall and the Church of San Juan Bautista. It’s a great place to relax and take in the local scenery, and it’s just a short walk from the Casa de la Cultura.

Piedras La Cantera

Piedras La Cantera is a unique attraction that’s definitely worth a visit. This quarry is known for its beautiful green stone, which has been used to build many of the historic buildings in Arucas. Visitors can take a guided tour of the quarry and learn about the history of the stone and its importance to the local community. Piedras La Cantera is located just a short drive from the Casa de la Cultura.

Visiting the Casa De La Cultura

If you’re interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Gran Canaria, a visit to the Casa De La Cultura in Arucas is a must. This cultural center is a hub of activity, featuring a beautiful garden, public library, and numerous photography opportunities.

Experiencing the Garden

One of the highlights of a visit to the Casa De La Cultura is experiencing the beautiful garden. The garden features a wide variety of plants and flowers, including many native to Gran Canaria. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. The garden is also a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.

Public Library Visit

The Casa De La Cultura is home to a public library, which is open to visitors. The library features a wide selection of books, including many about the history and culture of Gran Canaria. Visitors can browse the shelves, relax in a comfortable chair, and read to their heart’s content.

Photography Opportunities

For those interested in photography, the Casa De La Cultura offers numerous opportunities to capture stunning images. The garden is a popular spot for nature photography, while the architecture of the building itself is also worth photographing. Visitors can also take pictures of the many cultural events and exhibitions held at the Casa De La Cultura.

The Municipality of Arucas

Arucas is a municipality located in the northern part of Gran Canaria, one of the Canary Islands. The town is known for its beautiful architecture, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the most notable landmarks in Arucas.

Town Hall

The Town Hall of Arucas is a beautiful building located in the heart of the town. It was built in the early 20th century and is an impressive example of the neoclassical style. The building has a central courtyard that is surrounded by columns and arches, and it also has a clock tower that is visible from many parts of the town. The Town Hall is open to visitors, and it’s worth taking a tour to learn more about the history of Arucas.

Church

The Church of San Juan Bautista is one of the most important landmarks in Arucas. It was built in the 20th century and is an impressive example of neogothic architecture. The church has a beautiful facade that is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures, and it also has a bell tower that is visible from many parts of the town. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with beautiful stained glass windows, a high altar, and many other decorative elements.

Palace

The Palace of the Marchioness is a beautiful building located in the center of Arucas. It was built in the 19th century and is an impressive example of the neoclassical style. The building has a central courtyard that is surrounded by columns and arches, and it also has a beautiful garden that is open to visitors. The Palace is currently used as a cultural center, and it hosts many exhibitions, concerts, and other events throughout the year.

Tastes of Arucas

Arucas is a town on the island of Gran Canaria that is known for its rich gastronomy. The town has a range of traditional dishes that are influenced by the island’s history and culture. Here are some of the must-try dishes when visiting Arucas:

Papas Arrugadas

Papas Arrugadas, or wrinkled potatoes, are a staple dish in the Canary Islands. The potatoes are boiled in saltwater until they are soft and then served with a spicy mojo sauce. The dish is simple yet delicious and is a must-try when visiting Arucas.

Queso de Flor

Queso de Flor, or flower cheese, is a unique cheese that is made from goat’s milk. The cheese is matured in flower liqueur, which gives it a distinct floral flavor. It is a popular cheese in Arucas and is often served with honey or jam.

Bienmesabe

Bienmesabe is a traditional dessert that is made from ground almonds, sugar, egg yolks, and lemon zest. The mixture is cooked until it thickens and is then served cold. It has a creamy and nutty flavor and is a perfect way to end a meal in Arucas.

Ron miel

Ron miel, or honey rum, is a popular drink in the Canary Islands. It is made by mixing rum with honey and is often served as a digestif. The drink has a sweet and smooth flavor and is a great way to experience the local flavors of Arucas.