The Canary Islands are the perfect vacation destination for history lovers. With over five centuries of Old World history, there is plenty to see and explore on the Canary Islands. Couple that with the pristine beaches on the islands, and you have the perfect paradise!

The Canaries are in an interesting location, right between the two very different cultures of Europe and Africa, Europe and the Americas. The culture is an exciting blend of mainland Europe, Africa, and South American influences. Each island has its own unique history and culture.

The islands were not conquered until the 15th century, and therefore were not influenced by the thinking and culture of the European Middle Ages. Before they were settled, the people of the Canaries were almost prehistoric in their culture. Soon they became an important port for the Europeans on their way to the Americas, and thus their culture was forever changed.

A visit to the largest island, Tenerife, offers many historical attractions. Start by getting a feel for the lay of the land by hiking up the Pico del Teide, the highest point on the island, and in the country of Spain. The capital city, Santa Cruz, has many attractions, including the historic Church of San Francisco, which has a great museum of art and history. Twenty-five kilometers to the southeast, the village of Buimar has the Pyramid Park, an archaeological dig site that is open to the public. The Puerto de la Cruz is a resort that has 17th century buildings.

The island of La Palma also has a city called Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz de La Palma boasts buildings that date back to the 16th century! Also in Santa Cruz de La Palma is the Natural History Museum, which attributes some of the natural attractions on the islands.

La Gomera is better known for the white sand beaches and rugged terrain. The historical significant of this island is still vital. Christopher Columbus spent time in the capital of San Sebastian, and today there is an old fortress that has been turned into a monument to Columbus. The laurel forest of the Garajonay National Park are interesting as they have ancient trees. The people of La Gomera have a unique whistling language that they use to call to each other from the mountaintops.

On Gran Canaria, the history buff will enjoy visiting Las Palmas, a city that is set between to bays. Here you can visit Old Town, a historic part of the city, which includes the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Ana. There are several historical and art museums in Las Palmas as well. Christopher Columbus lived in this city before heading to the Americas the first time, and there are monuments to commemorate this fact.

Lanzarote offers the city of Teguise, which was the ancient capital of the island. Here you can explore historic palaces, convents, and churches. There is also a castle that was built on a volcanic cone! There are many dormant volcanoes on this island that offer nature lovers a chance to explore caves and lava flows.

Finally, do not miss the island of Fuerteventura. Here you can visit charming Corralejo where straw baskets are hand woven, and a Norman castle in Rico Roque. The Church of Santa Maria is located in the city of Betancuria. This beautiful church has stunning painted ceilings and murals. Explore the old capital city of Betancuria while you are there.

No matter how much you love history, a visit to the Canaries is not complete without spending some time on the beach. The climate is perfect year-round, and visitors enjoy water sports on the white sand beaches of all the islands. Take time to relax, unwind, and explore some history on your vacation in the Canary Islands!