Enjoy your journey through the geography and history of southern Gran Canaria, through its names!
The south of Gran Canaria has a rich toponymy that reflects its history, its landscapes and its traditions. Here we present a tour of some of the most interesting place names:
Place names of Aboriginal origin:
Taurus Mountain: The name comes from "taurus" which means "great mountain" in the Aboriginal language.
Fataga: It is believed that it comes from "fa" (goat) and "gata" (water), referring to the abundant goats that drank in the area.
Mogán: Its origin could be related to "mogo" (barn) or "moguan" (council of elders).
Toponyms that reflect human activity:
Puerto de Mogán: An old fishing port now converted into a tourist destination.
Arinaga Salt Flats: Traditional salt mine that is still in operation.
Playa del Inglés: The original name was Playa de Maspalomas, but it was changed to attract international tourism.
Meloneras: Recent place name associated with the cultivation of melons in the area.
Religious place names:
San Bartolomé de Tirajana: The southern central municipality is named after the patron saint.
Arguineguín: Derived from "Arguineguén", a Guanche king with whom the area was associated.
Pasito Blanco: It refers to a white church built nearby.
Descriptive toponyms:
Playa de las Arenas: Obvious for the presence of fine, golden sand.
Punta Cantera: Refers to an old volcanic rock quarry.
Cardón Mountain: Named for the abundance of cardones, Canarian cacti.
Barranco de Tirajana: Refers to the water course that crosses the municipality.
