HISTORY

Discover the fascinating history of La Gomera

La Gomera is not just an island of breathtaking scenery. It’s also a land rich in unique history, shaped by its people, its traditions, and its unbreakable bond with nature. Here’s what you need to know before you visit:

The first inhabitants: the Guanches

The Guanches, believed to have originated in North Africa, were the first inhabitants of La Gomera. They lived in caves, practiced terraced agriculture and maintained a strong bond with nature. Their culture has left a lasting imprint, notably through Silbo Gomero, a whistled language used to communicate across the steep valleys.

Today, this unique heritage is recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage and continues to be taught in the island’s schools, a way of preserving this legacy for future generations.

A historic stopover: Christopher Columbus

In 1492, Christopher Columbus stopped off at La Gomera on his way to discover the New World. The island served as a strategic point for replenishing water and food supplies. According to accounts, Columbus stayed in San Sebastián, where he drew water from the famous well in Columbus’s house.

The Torre del Conde, an ancient fortress in the heart of San Sebastián, remains a fascinating testimony to this era. This stopover links La Gomera to one of the most significant moments in world history.

A preserved natural heritage

Nature is the real protagonist on La Gomera. The Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to one of Europe’s last remaining laurel forests. This remnant of a time when this vegetation covered a large part of the Mediterranean basin is today a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

The island’s spectacular landscapes, steep cliffs and deep valleys bear witness to its volcanic past and millions of years of erosion. They make La Gomera a unique place where every panorama tells a fascinating geological story.

A historic stopover: Christopher Columbus

In 1492, Christopher Columbus stopped off at La Gomera on his way to discover the New World. The island served as a strategic point for replenishing water and food supplies. According to accounts, Columbus stayed in San Sebastián, where he drew water from the famous well in Columbus’s house.

The Torre del Conde, an ancient fortress in the heart of San Sebastián, remains a fascinating testimony to this era. This stopover links La Gomera to one of the most significant moments in world history.

La Gomera today

Today, La Gomera captivates with its authenticity and unspoilt landscapes. While ancient traditions such as the Silbo Gomero and terraced farming continue to mark its identity, it is above all the serenity of its natural setting and the beauty of its relief that attract visitors.

The island is a haven of peace where the past and nature play an essential role, offering everyone an authentic experience far from the hustle and bustle of the major tourist centers.

A journey through time and nature

To visit La Gomera is to immerse yourself in a unique balance of history and natural landscapes. While some valleys and villages evoke the past, it’s the forests, rugged terrain and breathtaking panoramas that capture the essence of the island.

As you explore its trails or admire its landscapes, you’ll discover a Gomera where time seems to stand still, giving way to the magic of unspoilt nature.