Gran Canaria

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Gran Canaria

View of Gran Canaria
Geography
Location	Atlantic Ocean
Coordinates	27°58′N 15°36′W Fatal error: The format of the coordinate could not be determined. Parsing failed.
Archipelago	Canary Islands
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Highest point	Pico de las Nieves
Administration
Spain
Autonomous Community	Canary Islands
Province	Las Palmas
Largest settlement	Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (pop. 383,308)
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Demographics
Population	851,231 (2020)
Pop. density	Template:Infobox islands/density
Ethnic groups	Spanish

Gran Canaria is the second most populous island of the Canary Islands, an archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean off the northwestern coast of Africa. It is part of the autonomous community of the Canary Islands and belongs to the Province of Las Palmas. The island's capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is the largest city in the Canary Islands and one of the largest cities in Spain.

Geography

Gran Canaria has a round shape, with a diameter of approximately 50 kilometers. The island's highest point is Pico de las Nieves, which reaches an elevation of 1,949 meters. The island is known for its diverse landscapes, including sandy beaches, green ravines, and mountainous areas.

Climate

The climate of Gran Canaria is often described as a "miniature continent" due to its varied microclimates. The coastal areas typically experience mild temperatures year-round, while the interior can have more extreme temperatures. The island's climate is classified as a subtropical.

History

Gran Canaria has a rich history that dates back to the Guanches, the indigenous people of the Canary Islands. The island was conquered by the Crown of Castile in the late 15th century. Since then, it has been an important stopover for ships traveling between Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

Economy

The economy of Gran Canaria is primarily based on tourism, which accounts for a significant portion of the island's GDP. Other important sectors include agriculture, fishing, and trade. The island is also known for its production of bananas, tomatoes, and other agricultural products.

Culture

Gran Canaria has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, museums, and theaters. The island is famous for its annual Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which attracts visitors from around the world. Traditional Canarian music and dance are also an integral part of the island's cultural heritage.

Transportation

Gran Canaria is well-connected by air and sea. The island's main airport, Gran Canaria Airport, is one of the busiest in Spain. There are also several ports, including the Port of Las Palmas, which is a major hub for maritime traffic in the region.

Related Pages

• Canary Islands
• Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
• Pico de las Nieves
• Gran Canaria Airport
• Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria