Castle of La Luz – Martín Chirino Foundation for Art and Thought

The Castle of La Luz is the oldest defensive fortress in the Canarias. It was built in 1494 on the site where the foundations of a modest tower once stood, erected by Juan Rejón, founder of the Real de Las Palmas — the origin of the city — in 1478.

From its strategic location on the isthmus of La Isleta, intended to protect the domains of the Crown of Castile from Dutch and English pirate attacks, the Castle of La Luz has witnessed the history of the Canarias. It was declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1941.

Since 2014, it has been home to the Martín Chirino Foundation for Art and Thought, a space for art, debate and culture in the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, where history and archaeology coexist with the work of the Gran Canarian sculptor, printmaker and draughtsman.

The building was remodelled as an art space by the architectural studio Nieto-Sobejano. During the restoration, parts of the original structure were uncovered, having remained hidden for five centuries due to the infill associated with the construction of the outer city wall in the 16th century.

Martín Chirino, recipient of the National Prize for Fine Arts, was a member of the artistic group El Paso. His works can be found in streets, squares, museums and collections, with several pieces located at different points throughout the city.

Guided tours:
Wednesdays, from 16:00 to 18:00 (English or Spanish), by prior reservation by phone (928 463 162) or email (DEAC@fundacionmartinchirino.org).

Opening hours:
Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 to 19:00.
Sundays and public holidays: 10:00 to 14:00.