that place is the Vegueta neighbourhood. Its colonial-style squares and narrow streets recall bygone eras, when one might have crossed paths with explorers of unknown worlds, famous pirates or seasoned and cosmopolitan merchants. A stroll through this neighbourhood begins in the Plaza del Pilar Nuevo, where centuries ago women would gath- er to fill their water jugs. In this pleasant little square, one of the most emblematic (and beautiful) buildings in the neighbourhood catches the eye: the Casa de Colón, the very site where the city of Las Palmas was founded (Colón, 1). Just a few metres away lies Plaza de Santa Ana, home to the cathedral, ‘the largest place of worship in the Canary Islands, which, as it took so long to build, and adpated to changing architectural styles, is an example of late Gothic on the inside, while its exterior is neoclassical,’ explains guide Guillermo Bernal. Since the late 19th century, curi- ous statues of dogs have stood guard in front of the temple. ‘Some believe that these dogs are linked to the origin of the archipelago’s name, but this is not the case. These famous dogs were a gift to the city from one of the most powerful British families on the island,’ notes the expert. Culture is present in every corner of the neighbourhood. For lovers of anthropology, there is the Museo de Canarias (Doctor Verneau, 2), dedicated to the first settlers on the island. For more contemporary tastes, there is the Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno (Balcones, 11): designed by the architect Sáenz de Oiza, it preserves the original façades of the houses that once stood on the site centuries ago, while its interior evokes its relationship with the ocean. No one should leave Vegueta without discovering what it tastes like. Its market, full of colour and aromas (Mendizábal, 1), holds the answer in its stalls selling vegeta- bles, fruit, fish, spices and many other temptations. ‘We look for tradition and excellence in locally sourced produce,’ says José Quintana, a merchant who proudly showcases the most exotic flavours of the islands. ‘They’re all grown here. The secret? Our spectacular climate.’ © Alberto Paredes / Alamy Stock Photo Museo Canario // Canarian Museum José Quintana, comerciante del mercado de Vegueta. // José Quintana, trader at Vegueta market.