Action or Discovery?

Have you ever visited the Canary Islands and enjoyed the delicacy that is a Canary Islands banana? Bananas are typical fare in Canary Islands culture, not only because of their high nutritional value, but also because they are part of the identity and history of the Canarian people.

What’s more, the cultivation, production, and distribution of bananas play a key role in the islands’ economy. Many families depend on this activity as a primary source of income. It is also a significant source of income for the region, both nationally and internationally.

Did you know that the Canarian banana has its roots in Asia?

The Canarian banana is no common banana. It belongs to the Cavendish variety, with a smaller size, yellow skin and black spots that appear as it ripens. These spots, as well as its sweet taste, are its great hallmark.

Although the Canary Islands banana is a representative fruit of the islands, its origins can be traced back to Southeast Asia, specifically India and Malaysia.

Thanks to the sailors who carried cargo to feed themselves on their long journeys, starting in the early 15th century banana plantations began to crop up in the archipelago.

The Canary Islands played a crucial role in the discovery of the new continent America. Due to their geographic location, the Canary Islands were a convenient place for fleets to stop and replenish before continuing their journey.

Furthermore, the Canary Islands were very important in the plant and crop trade and had a significant impact on agriculture and diet on both continents.

The Canary Island banana: a symbol of identity.

The people of the Canaries, given the widespread shortages at the time, were very grateful for the arrival of this new crop, and banana consumption soon spread across all the islands.

British travellers who passed through the islands also took a fancy to them, which boosted their consumption abroad. So much so that since the early 20th century, the cultivation of bananas in the Canary Islands has expanded to today’s nine thousand hectares.

The Canary Islands banana has gradually become a staple in the fruit bowls of millions of households, taking on an iconic status.

Uncover the Captivating World of Cacti at Cactualdea Park in Gran Canaria.

In the picturesque municipality of Aldea de San Nicolás, Gran Canaria, lies a true oasis of botanical wonder – the Cactualdea Park. Founded in 1995 by the Beisel family, a group of passionate enthusiasts with a long-standing tradition in the cactus cultivation industry, this remarkable attraction offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the enchanting realm of these resilient, drought-resistant plants.

Strategically located in an area away from the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist spots, Cactualdea Park was purposefully established in this region due to its exceptional climate and the robust agricultural infrastructure that sets it apart. The founders’ vision was to create a space that would not only showcase nature in its purest form but also serve as an economic driver, attracting visitors to the often overlooked, yet captivating municipality of Aldea de San Nicolás.

As you step into the park, you’ll be captivated by the diverse array of over 1,000 cactus species, each with its own unique shape, color, and story. Wander through the meticulously curated gardens, marveling at the resilience and adaptability of these remarkable plants.

The experience at Cactualdea Park is not merely about admiring the cacti – it’s about immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Gran Canaria’s natural heritage. Take your time, stroll leisurely, and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Cactualdea Park in Aldea de San Nicolás, Gran Canaria, promises to leave a lasting impression. Embark on this botanical adventure and uncover the wonders of the cactus kingdom, nestled within the lush landscapes of this remarkable island.