Christopher Colombus House

The House of Christopher Columbus

The Las Palmas audio-guided tour brings you to the House of Christopher Columbus, the Casa de Colon, one of the city's essential monuments. This fine colonial building recalls the role played by the Canary Islands in the navigator's great voyage to the New World.

A stopover towards the New World

It is neither Columbus's birthplace nor his residence: he is said to have stayed there only a few days. But the Canary Islands were the last European stage of his journey before the great departure towards the Indies, which turned out to be the Americas. The navigator is said to have lodged here, in this former residence of the island's governor, while one of his ships was repaired. It was officially from the Canaries that he set off westwards.

What there is to see

Now a cultural institution, the Casa de Colon is a set of historic colonial-style houses of the 16th century, beautifully restored around flowery patios. Its collections evoke Columbus's voyages, maritime history and the links between the Canaries and America. The building itself, with its wooden balconies and inner courtyards, is a testimony to Canarian architecture.

Practical information

The Casa de Colon is in the Vegueta district, on a quiet little square in the historic centre of Las Palmas. The visit is generally ticketed; hours and prices vary by season, so it is best to check in advance. The site easily combines with the discovery of the cathedral and the neighbouring lanes.

Did Christopher Columbus really live here ?

He is said to have stayed there only a few days, in the former governor's residence, while a ship was repaired before his departure westwards.

What can be seen at the Casa de Colon ?

A fine 16th-century colonial ensemble and collections on Columbus's voyages and the links between the Canaries and America.