Caves of the Crosses

Cuevas de las Cruces is a cluster of artificial caves carved into volcanic rock, sitting right on the road between Gáldar and Agaete in northwestern Gran Canaria.

The caves were hollowed out of volcanic tuff and are arranged across three distinct levels on the hillside. Their origin traces back to the pre-Hispanic Canarian settlers who lived on the island before the Castilian conquest. Several chambers still retain enough of their original shape that archaeologists have little doubt about their pre-Hispanic roots, even though many of them were reused in later periods, including modern times.

The largest dwellings feature a central hall flanked by two hearths, and the rock was also carved with skylights to let daylight into the interior. Climbing further up the slope leads to a small granary with storage silos, once used to keep supplies. The site was first documented in detail in 1946 by researcher Sebastián Jiménez Sánchez, and archaeological material had already been collected there in the early twentieth century.

How to get there?

Cuevas de las Cruces sits directly on the road connecting Gáldar and Agaete, so it's a short drive of about fifteen minutes from either town. This stretch of road is a popular route through the island's northwest, linking two of the region's key towns. A short walk off the roadside leads up to the caves themselves, and the surrounding area invites a longer stroll if time allows.

What will you see?

The main draw is the collection of chambers carved into the rock face — from large, multi-purpose interiors with hearths to small niches and storage nooks. Many of the openings sit almost stacked on top of one another, creating a distinctive, multi-level pattern across the hillside. The site offers a tangible sense of daily life for the island's early inhabitants: sleeping quarters, cooking hearths, and further up the slope, a granary for storing food. The surroundings are typical of northwestern Gran Canaria, with views over dry ravines and slopes running down toward the coast.

When to visit?

The caves can be visited year-round, though early morning or late afternoon are the most comfortable times, avoiding the heat during the climb. The spot is also popular around sunset, when the views from the roadside above Gáldar rank among the most striking on this side of the island. It's best to skip the hottest midday hours, especially in summer.

Who is this for?

This site suits visitors interested in archaeology and the history of the Canary Islands' pre-Hispanic inhabitants, as well as hikers looking for a quieter alternative to the island's busier landmarks. A moderate trail nearby winds through ravines and dirt paths, so comfortable footwear is worth packing.

Frequently asked questions

Is Cuevas de las Cruces the same as Cueva Pintada in Gáldar? No. Cueva Pintada is a separate and much better-known archaeological site in the town of Gáldar itself, featuring wall paintings and a visitor center. Cuevas de las Cruces is a different cave complex, located along the road to Agaete.

Is there an entrance fee? The caves sit on open ground beside the road with no ticketed visitor center — access is free and self-guided.

Is the site suitable for children? The short climb up to the caves is manageable for older children, though the uneven terrain and unprotected openings around some chambers call for close supervision.

How long does a visit take? Viewing the caves themselves takes roughly half an hour to an hour, but combined with the nearby hiking trail, visitors can easily spend a few hours in the area.