Plaza Hurtado de Mendoza

Plaza Hurtado de Mendoza is a small but distinctive square in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, sitting right on the boundary between two of the city's historic districts, Triana and Vegueta. Locals rarely use its official name at all, calling it simply "Plaza de las Ranas" — Frog Square — after the frog ornaments on the fountain at its centre.

Where does the name come from?

The square hasn't always carried its current name. It was originally known as Plaza de la Democracia before being renamed in honour of Ambrosio Hurtado de Mendoza Pérez (1850–1922), who served as mayor of Las Palmas from 1903 to 1908. In 1922, shortly after his death, a monument by the sculptor Neri was erected here: a female figure alongside a medallion bearing a relief portrait of the former mayor, commemorating his contribution to the city.

What will you see there?

The centrepiece is the Fuente de las Ranas, a fountain decorated with frog figures that gave the square its popular nickname and remains its most photographed feature. Right beside the square stands the neoclassical building of the Biblioteca Insular, the island library, which also functions as a cultural centre. The surrounding architecture, typical of this border strip between Triana and Vegueta, has a distinctly Canarian, colonial-era character worth pausing for.

How do you get to Plaza Hurtado de Mendoza?

The square sits right in the historic heart of Las Palmas, within easy walking distance of Vegueta's main landmarks, including Santa Ana Cathedral and the Casa de Colón. The most enjoyable way to arrive is on foot, walking through the old town from Vegueta toward Triana — a route that takes in most of this part of the city's key sights along the way. The area is well served by city bus lines connecting to central Las Palmas, and the square itself sits close to the main pedestrian routes linking the two historic districts.

When is the best time to visit?

The square has activity year-round, but it comes most alive during the local markets and cultural events held here regularly, which give the area an extra dose of energy. It's worth checking the local events calendar before visiting, since market days turn the square into a genuine gathering spot for residents — a far richer experience than a simple sightseeing stop. Morning or late-afternoon hours, when the sun isn't at its harshest, are ideal for a relaxed look at the fountain and the surrounding buildings.

Who is this square for?

Plaza Hurtado de Mendoza suits travellers exploring the historic centre of Las Palmas who want something beyond the headline sights. It fits neatly into a walking route between Vegueta and Triana, offering a glimpse of a more local, less touristy corner of the city — where a fountain, a century-old monument, and a neighbouring library combine into a quiet, characterful pocket right in the heart of the island capital.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the square called "Frog Square"? The nickname "Plaza de las Ranas" comes from the frog figures decorating the fountain at the centre of the square — the most recognisable feature of the place.

Who was Hurtado de Mendoza? Ambrosio Hurtado de Mendoza Pérez was mayor of Las Palmas from 1903 to 1908. The square was renamed in his honour in 1922, when a monument bearing his portrait was installed.

What else is worth seeing nearby? Right next to the square stands the neoclassical Biblioteca Insular building, and a short walk takes you to Vegueta's main landmarks, including Santa Ana Cathedral.

Does the square host any events? Yes, it regularly hosts local markets and cultural events that bring extra life to this part of the city, drawing both residents and visitors.