San Bartolomé de Tirajana

On our way to San Bartolomé de Tirajana, heading towards the centre of the island, we pass the huge volcanic crater of Caldera de Tirajana at the beginning of the Barranco de Tirajana, overgrown with lush vegetation.

This historic little town of San Bartolomé de Tirajana also serves as the administrative centre of the costal regions of Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés, which makes it the most extended municipality in Gran Canaria. This region is known for its plantations of almonds, plums, peaches and cherries, which are used in the production of vodkas and liqueurs, in particular for the San Bartolomé specialties Guindilla, a cherry liqueur, and Mejunje, a sweet concoction of honey, rum and lemon.

The triple-nave parish church Iglesia de San Bartolomé began to be built in 1690, but it was only in 1922 when it was consecrated.  In its interior it features Mudéjar-style wooden vaults and a main altarpiece with the image of Saint Bartholomew occupying the centre. Every Sunday morning the surrounds of the church hold a local market. Another church to be found in San Bartolomé is the Iglesia de Santiago de Tunte, consecrated to St. James.

The main festivals in this region are celebrated on the 24^th of August, day of San Bartolomé, and the 25^th of July, day of Santiago (St. James), a major party not only here but also all over the island.

Many of the ancient aboriginal tracks, Caminos Reales (royal roads), can to be found in this area. These old tracks were once the only means to get around in the centre of the island. In the last years many of them have been restored and reopened to walkers and hikers to promote eco-friendly tourism. Find more information about the Caminos Reales at Leisure & Sports.