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Painted Cave, Galdar
28.1440° N, -15.6551° E
About
The Painted cave is an archaeological museum and park in the town of Galdar, located the northwest of Grand Canary in the Canary Islands, Spain. This centre is part of the Spanish Ministry of Culture, Historic Heritage and Museums of the town council of Grand Canary. Inside are found some of the most representative archaeological vestiges of pre-Hispanic Canaries, with characteristics unique within Spain. The Painted cave is considered as the "Sistine chapel" of the former inhabitants of the island, the Canarii.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Occupation phase one
6th–11th centuries
Occupation phase two and conquest
13th–16th centuries
Reopened as museum and park
26 July 2006
Pine fragments radiocarbon dated
601–994 CE
Lauraceae remains radiocarbon dated
1049–1257 CE
Initial discovery during agricultural work
1862
José Ramos Orihuela visit
1873
Diego Ripoche visit and drawings
1882
Olivia Stone visit and advocacy
1884
René Verneau detailed description
1887
Public conservation campaign begins
1967
Protection works and enclosure construction
1970
Declared Monument historique artistique
1972
Site closed to the public
October 1982
Exchange with Altamira museum
2016
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Storage Structures
Industrial and Craft Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Agricultural and Land Use Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Food Production and Processing Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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