How to Visit Cenobio de Valerón, Gran Canaria

Last Updated on 23rd April 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

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Perched high above in the craggy cliffside of the volcanic landscape lies an archaeological site that I don’t think enough people talk about. A little more off the beaten path, Cenobio de Valerón is an archeological gem of the Gran Canaria and easily one of the most iconic sights of the island.

Here’s your guide on how to visit Cenobio de Valerón, Spain’s coolest ancient pantry!

What is Cenobio de Valerón?

Officially named Cenobio de Valerón which translates as “Monastery of Valerón”, it is an archaeological site tucked away on the cliffside of Montaña del Gallego, in Gran Canaria, Spain.

Built by the ancient Romans within the volcanic landscape, it is a large complex system of caves that were carved into the mountain and used as a storage space for harvested goods such as grains. Essentially, it’s a primitive pantry… on a really large scale!

Today, Cenobio de Valerón is considered a manmade archaeological wonder and triumph, and is easily one of the most iconic and visited sights in all of Gran Canaria.

A history of Cenobio de Valerón

The history of the caves begins over 800 years ago, believed to be around the year 1040 CE. The ancient Canarians utilised their geological surroundings with the remarkable idea to carve out small caves in which they could use as a grain store.

Skilfully, they created over 300 storage cavities of various different sizes, laid out over several levels. Having an appearance similar to that of honeycomb, the holes were used to store grain, cereal and basically any dry goods that were harvested and could be kept for a while.

Cenobio de Valerón is in fact the largest pre-Hispanic collective granary and it was used right up until the end of the 15th century. So, it will probably come as no surprise that in 1974 it was declared a monument of cultural interest.

Highlights of Cenobio de Valerón

300 caves

The remarkable network of caves consists of over 300 hollows which have been carved into the soft rock of the cliffside. The various silos are all connected and are spread out over eight different levels. Keeping harvested goods safe from thieves, animals and the elements, it’s likely that there would also have been people guarding the granary storage too.

Homes of the settlers

On your visit you’ll also see recreations of a home setup that would be similar to how the ancient Canarians lived. In fact, most native people of the island are thought to have lived in the caves. Looking at the set up, you’ll see the hunter-gatherer and agricultural style equipment that would have been used.

The views

One of the best things about visiting Cenobio de Valerón, aside from the caves, has to be that of the views. Stretching far and wide into the distance, you will find yourself truly in awe at the volcanic formations of the landscape that surrounds!

The viewing platform is a great spot to take pictures from and also gives you a good view looking down into the valley below.

How long do you need to visit?

Truth be told, you only really need 30 minutes or so to visit, this includes climbing up and down again. The archaeological site itself is fascinating and absolutely worth seeing while you are in the region, but there isn’t loads to see so you don’t need to allow too much time.

How to visit Cenobio de Valerón

Cenobio de Valerón is located in the north of Gran Canaria, in the municipality of Santa María de Guía. It’s around a 30 minute drive from Las Palmas, so the easiest way to get there is either by taxi or if you are spending quite a bit of time on Gran Canaria, I highly recommend booking your own transport in order to explore the island properly. Check car rental prices and availability here.

There is a visitor centre, (which is more like a small wooden cabin) where you have to pay a €3 entry fee before you can visit. You’ll also be given a leaflet describing the history and there were a couple souvenirs for sale too.

The walk up to the caves is pretty steep but is only a short distance, it is only accessible by foot. Your visit will be self-guided only, there are no tours available. If you are looking for more ideas for your Gran Canaria trip, be sure to check out our suggestions for how to spend 4 days on Gran Canaria.

Opening times: The site is closed every Monday. Open 10am-5pm (extended to 6pm during summer).

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