The Dogs of Santa Ana

The Dogs of Santa Ana

The Las Palmas audio-guided tour draws your attention to the Perros de Santa Ana, these cast-iron dog sculptures arranged in front of the cathedral, on Plaza Santa Ana. Sometimes sitting, sometimes lying down, they seem to watch over the emblematic monument for more than a century.

Eight cast-iron dogs

The eight cast-iron dogs were made by the French sculptor Alfred Jacquemart and installed on the square at the end of the 19th century, around 1895. The reason for their presence in the heart of Las Palmas remains uncertain. According to one hypothesis, they were given by a French ship on its way to South Africa, which stopped on Gran Canaria for repairs. Their origin thus remains shrouded in mystery.

What there is to see

Arranged here and there on Plaza Santa Ana, facing the cathedral, the cast-iron dogs form an unusual and endearing ensemble, which has become one of the symbols of the city. Some see in them a link with the name of the archipelago, sometimes associated with the Latin word for dog. The setting, one of the finest in Vegueta, makes it a stop appreciated by walkers.

Practical information

The Perros de Santa Ana can be seen freely, in the open air, on Plaza Santa Ana, in front of the cathedral, in the Vegueta district. They are accessible at any time and free of charge. It is a quick stop, ideal for a photo, in the heart of the historic centre of Las Palmas.

Who made the dogs on Plaza Santa Ana ?

They are the work of the French sculptor Alfred Jacquemart and were installed on the square around 1895.

How many dogs are on the square ?

Eight cast-iron dogs are arranged on Plaza Santa Ana, facing the cathedral, in various poses.