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Teror

Teror is a historic municipality in the northern midlands of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain, serving as a key religious and cultural center with a population of 12,878 inhabitants as of January 2024.^[1] Covering 25.8 square kilometers at an average altitude of 589 meters, it lies about 20 kilometers southwest of the island's capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and is bordered by municipalities such as Arucas, Firgas, and Valleseco.^[2] Founded in the late 15th century following the Spanish conquest of the island, Teror gained prominence through the 1481 apparition of the Virgin of the Pine (Virgen del Pino), an event that transformed a simple pine grove into a site of enduring devotion and pilgrimage.^[3] This legend, where the Virgin Mary reportedly appeared atop a pine tree on September 8, 1481, near the Green Cross, established Teror as the spiritual heart of Gran Canaria and the patroness of the Canary Islands Diocese.^[4] The town's historic center, declared a Historic-Artistic Complex in 1979, exemplifies traditional Canarian architecture with its colorful wooden balconies, narrow cobblestone streets, and colonial-era buildings.^[2] At its core stands the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine, a neoclassical masterpiece with construction begun in 1760 and completed in 1767, elevated to basilica status in 1916, housing the revered wooden statue of the Virgin adorned in 16th-century dresses and jewels donated by devotees.^[3] The basilica, designated a national monument in 1976, draws thousands annually, especially during the Romería de la Virgen del Pino pilgrimage on September 8, blending religious fervor with festive traditions like floral offerings and traditional music.^[2] Surrounding landmarks include the Plaza del Pino, a vibrant 18th-century square that hosts markets and events, and the Yellow Tower (Torre Amarilla), a 1708 Manueline-style bell tower from the previous church structure and now part of the basilica complex.^[5] Beyond its religious heritage, Teror preserves a rural charm tied to its agricultural roots, with economies centered on livestock, artisan crafts, and the production of local specialties like chorizo sausage and gofio (toasted grain flour).^[2] The weekly Sunday market in the historic quarter features over 100 stalls selling fresh produce, handmade textiles, and the famous pan de chorizo (sausage bread), attracting visitors seeking authentic Canarian culture.^[6] Nearby natural sites, such as the Osorio Estate within the Doramas Rural Park, offer hiking trails through laurel forests and ravines, highlighting Teror's integration of history, faith, and verdant landscapes.^[2] As one of Gran Canaria's most preserved villages, Teror continues to embody the island's indigenous Guanche influences alongside its Spanish colonial legacy.^[4]

Geography

Location and topography

Teror is situated in the northern midlands of Gran Canaria, within the province of Las Palmas in the Canary Islands autonomous community of Spain. The municipality lies approximately 20 km south of the island's capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, positioning it as a key inland settlement accessible via major roadways like the GC-21 highway.^[7]^[8] The municipality encompasses a surface area of 25.8 km², characterized by a rugged, mountainous topography that reflects Gran Canaria's volcanic origins. Elevations vary significantly, ranging from a minimum of around 197 m near coastal-adjacent ravines to a maximum of 1,352 m at higher peaks, with the town center at 589 m above sea level. This terrain includes steep slopes, deep valleys, and prominent ravines such as the Barranco de Tenoya—which bisects the area—and the Barranco del Pino, creating a network of microclimates and terraced landscapes historically shaped by erosion and human adaptation.^[2]^[9]^[10]^[11] Teror shares borders with several neighboring municipalities: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to the west, Santa Brígida to the southwest, Vega de San Mateo to the southeast, Valleseco to the east, Firgas to the northeast, and Arucas to the north. These boundaries delineate a transitional zone between urban expanses and rural highlands. A significant portion of the territory falls within the Canary Islands Network of Protected Natural Areas, including sections of the Rural Park of Doramas—encompassing the 207-hectare Finca Osorio estate—and the Protected Landscape of Pino Santo, a volcanic crater area spanning 3,012.3 hectares that highlights the region's laurel forest remnants and biodiversity hotspots.^[10]^[2]^[12]

Climate and environment

Teror experiences a semi-arid climate classified as cold steppe (Köppen BSk), influenced by its subtropical oceanic setting in the Canary Islands, with Mediterranean-like characteristics due to mild temperatures and seasonal rainfall patterns.^[13]^[14] The average annual temperature hovers around 19°C, with mild winters featuring minimums of about 10-12°C and warm summers reaching maximums of 23-25°C, providing consistently comfortable conditions year-round.^[15]^[16] Annual precipitation averages 250-300 mm, concentrated primarily during the wetter winter months from October to March, when trade winds enhance moisture on the northern slopes.^[17]^[14] The environment of Teror is defined by its lush vegetation, particularly the relict laurel forests (laurisilva) that thrive in the higher elevations around 500-600 meters, remnants of ancient subtropical ecosystems that once covered much of Gran Canaria.^[18]^[19] These forests, featuring species like laurel (Laurus novocanariensis), chestnut, and endemic ferns, create a humid microclimate supported by frequent mists from the northeast trade winds. Biodiversity is rich in protected areas such as the Doramas Rural Park, which spans over 3,500 hectares and hosts more than 400 vascular plant species, including about 30 endemics unique to Gran Canaria, alongside fauna like the endemic Gran Canaria blue chaffinch (Fringilla polatzeki) in adjacent pine woodlands.^[20]^[21]^[22] Conservation efforts in Teror integrate the municipality into the Canary Islands' network of natural reserves, with the Doramas Rural Park designated as a protected landscape since 1994 to preserve its laurel forests and endemic biodiversity against historical deforestation and climate pressures.^[23]^[21] Altitudinal variations, from valley floors to surrounding peaks, foster diverse microclimates, resulting in wetter conditions on the northern slopes that sustain the park's ecological integrity and support local water resources.^[6] These protections emphasize sustainable management, including reforestation initiatives to enhance soil retention and aquifer recharge in this vital green lung of Gran Canaria.^[24]

History

Origins and early settlement

Prior to the arrival of the Spanish, the area now known as Teror was inhabited by the Guanches, the indigenous Berber-descended people of Gran Canaria who had settled the island around 500 B.C. These early inhabitants lived in troglodyte settlements, with La Guanchía serving as a notable example of cave dwellings located southeast of the Valle de El Palmar at approximately 500 meters altitude, reflecting their adaptation to the island's rugged terrain.^[25]^[26] The Spanish conquest of Gran Canaria, led by the Crown of Castile under the Catholic Monarchs, unfolded between 1478 and 1483, with Juan Rejón initiating the campaign and Pedro de Vera completing the subjugation of key regions including the north-central highlands where Teror is situated. During this period, Teror emerged as an initial rural outpost amid the island's pacification efforts.^[26] A pivotal event shaping Teror's early identity occurred on September 8, 1481, when shepherds reportedly witnessed the apparition of the Virgin Mary atop a pine tree near the Green Cross in what is now Plaza del Pino, an event that immediately drew pilgrims and established the site's religious significance as the origin of the cult of the Virgen del Pino. This apparition, occurring mid-conquest, fostered early devotion among both indigenous converts and Spanish settlers, leading to the first pilgrimages to the location.^[3] Following the conquest's completion in 1483, Teror transitioned from a frontier settlement to formal ecclesiastical status, with the establishment of the Parish of Santa María de Teror in 1514, marking it as a central pilgrimage hub on Gran Canaria. By the early 16th century, a primitive hermitage dedicated to Santa María de Terore was constructed to house the revered image of the Virgin, laying the foundation for the area's enduring religious role.^[27]^[28]

Colonial and 19th-century development

During the Spanish colonial era, Teror achieved significant administrative recognition when it was proclaimed Villa Mariana in 1590, reflecting its burgeoning role as a religious and communal center centered on the site of the 1481 Marian apparition. This status elevated the settlement from a mere parish to a town with formal governance, fostering institutional development amid the island's post-conquest integration into the Spanish Empire. The town's location in the northern midlands positioned it as a key node in mountain trade routes, facilitating the exchange of goods between coastal ports and inland agricultural areas, which supported early economic activity based on local farming and pilgrimage-related commerce.^[29] Architectural and institutional expansion accelerated in the 17th century with the construction of the first major stone church, replacing earlier modest structures and symbolizing Teror's growing devotion to the Virgen del Pino; this included the relocation of the temple due to unstable soil and the addition of the distinctive yellow bell tower, completed and opened in 1708. The settlement expanded organically around the pine tree site of the apparition, with wealthy families commissioning ornate colonial-style houses featuring wooden balconies along Calle Real de la Plaza, blending functionality with religious symbolism. By the 18th century, this growth culminated in the initiation of the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino in 1760 under architect Diego Nicolás Eduardo, a neoclassical edifice consecrated in 1767 that became the focal point of the plaza and a testament to the town's prosperity from fertile soils and abundant water resources.^[5]^[3]^[30] In the 19th century, Teror formalized its municipal structure amid Spain's liberal reforms, gaining enhanced political and economic autonomy that solidified its status as an independent entity with a dedicated town hall acquired in 1909. The period marked an economic upswing as a trading center for agricultural products like fruits and vegetables, leveraging the town's verdant valleys and over two centuries of market tradition to connect with mainland Spain via ports; this boom persisted into the early 20th century, supporting local commerce until shifts in the 1930s. Socially, the era was shaped by broader Canarian emigration patterns to Latin America, which brought remittances that influenced architectural embellishments and community ties, while ongoing trade with the Spanish peninsula reinforced cultural and economic links to the metropole.^[29]^[5]^[31]

20th-century to present

In the early 20th century, Teror transitioned from its role as a prominent commercial hub, which had thrived since the 19th century due to its central markets and agricultural trade, toward greater integration with Las Palmas as road improvements in the 1930s enhanced connectivity across Gran Canaria.^[2] The Spanish Civil War (1936–1939) further disrupted local agriculture, with the Nationalist victory under Franco imposing economic controls and rationing that reduced crop yields and export capabilities in rural areas like Teror, exacerbating postwar shortages in the Canary Islands.^[32] Following Francisco Franco's death in 1975, Teror integrated into Spain's democratic framework through the 1978 Constitution, which restored regional autonomies and facilitated economic recovery.^[26] Tourism began to emerge as a key sector from the 1980s onward, driven by Gran Canaria's growing appeal as a destination, with Teror's preserved colonial architecture and religious sites attracting visitors to its old town.^[26] In April 1979, the areas surrounding the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino were officially declared a historic-artistic site, bolstering preservation efforts and cultural tourism.^[3] Entering the 21st century, Teror's municipal budget reached €17.8 million in 2022, supporting infrastructure and community services amid economic stabilization.^[33] The population has remained relatively stable, growing modestly from 12,671 residents in 2013 to 12,878 in 2024, reflecting controlled urban development in the mountainous region.^[34] Recent initiatives as of 2025 include sustainable tourism programs like the Gran Canaria Walking Festival, which promotes eco-friendly hiking routes to minimize environmental impact.^[35] These efforts align with the Canary Islands' 1982 Statute of Autonomy, which grants regional powers for environmental protection, yet contemporary challenges persist in balancing tourism growth—now a major economic driver—with conservation of natural landscapes, including risks from overcrowding and climate-induced wildfires in Teror's forested highlands.^[36]

Demographics

Population trends

Teror's population has experienced significant growth throughout the 20th century, rising from 4,794 inhabitants in 1900 to 9,992 by 1950, driven by natural increase and rural consolidation in Gran Canaria's northern midlands.^[34] This expansion continued into the late 20th century, reaching 10,368 in 1991 and accelerating to 12,144 in 2001 amid broader economic development on the island.^[34] By the early 2000s, the municipality had surpassed 12,000 residents, reflecting a pattern of steady demographic buildup tied to agricultural stability and proximity to Las Palmas.^[34] The population peaked at 12,944 in 2010, but experienced a slight decline post-2013, dropping to 12,522 by 2020, primarily due to emigration toward urban opportunities in Las Palmas.^[34] As of January 1, 2024, Teror has 12,878 inhabitants, with a population density of 499 per km² across its 25.81 km² area, indicating a return to modest growth at an annual rate of about 0.6% since 2021.^[34] The demographic profile shows an aging population, with a median age of approximately 45 years; roughly 13.4% are under 18, 69.3% are aged 18-65, and 17.2% are over 65.^[34] This aging trend aligns with broader Canary Islands patterns, where low birth rates and outward migration of younger residents contribute to an older median age.^[34] Key factors influencing these trends include net emigration to Las Palmas for employment, partially offset by inbound migration linked to tourism and service sector jobs in the region.^[34] Based on 2024 data, the demographic profile suggests stability with annual variations under 1%. Ethnically, the population is predominantly Canarian-Spanish, with 94.5% born in Spain and 97.1% holding Spanish citizenship; small immigrant communities, comprising about 2-3% from Latin America and the European Union, add minor diversity.^[37]

Settlement distribution

The municipality of Teror exhibits a dispersed spatial organization, featuring 11 entidades de población that encompass nearly 50 smaller nuclei scattered across its 25.8 km² territory.^[38] The central urban core, situated in the fertile valley, houses the majority of residents, while peripheral areas maintain a more fragmented, low-density pattern influenced by the island's mid-mountain topography. Key settlements include the municipal capital of Teror, which serves as the primary population center (over 6,000 residents as of the early 2010s), followed by El Palmar (around 1,400 residents as of the early 2010s).^[38] Smaller hamlets such as San José del Álamo, accommodating around 450 people, and Llano de los Ingleses contribute to the mosaic of outlying communities, often comprising traditional farmsteads and isolated dwellings. Teror's total population stands at 12,878 as of January 1, 2024.^[34] A clear urban-rural divide defines the distribution, with about 70% of the population concentrated in the urbanized central valley—encompassing barrios like El Pino, El Hoyo, El Rincón, San Matías, and Los Llanos—contrasting with the rural outskirts where agriculture shapes sparser habitation.^[38] These peripheral zones, including areas around El Álamo and Miraflor, feature dispersed rural nuclei with lower residential densities, reflecting longstanding agrarian traditions. The settlements are interconnected via a network of local roads that facilitate movement from the densely populated town center, where infrastructure supports higher urban density, to the low-density peripheral hamlets.^[38] Density gradients are evident, transitioning from compact housing clusters in the capital to expansive, low-intensity layouts in the surrounding rural expanses. Post-1980s population growth has spurred residential expansion, particularly in barrios like Los Llanos and San José del Álamo, with new housing developments accommodating influxes while adhering to the municipality's traditional dispersed layout.^[39]^[40] These additions respond to rising tourism interest in Teror's heritage sites, integrating modern residences without altering the core spatial character.^[5]

Government and economy

Local administration

The local administration of Teror is governed by the Ayuntamiento de Teror, a municipal corporation led by the alcalde (mayor) and consisting of 17 concejales (councilors) elected every four years.^[41] The current alcalde, as of November 2025, is José Agustín Arencibia García of the Partido Socialista Obrero Español (PSOE), who assumed office on June 14, 2025, following a coalition agreement with the Partido Popular (PP) after the 2023 municipal elections.^[42]^[43] The ayuntamiento operates through a plenary session of all councilors and a junta de gobierno local comprising the alcalde and deputy mayors, handling executive decisions on urban planning, public services, and fiscal policy.^[44] Teror's political landscape has been dominated by Canarian regional parties such as Coalición Canaria (CC), alongside national parties like PSOE and PP, reflecting the island's broader autonomist tendencies. Since the 1990s, successive administrations have prioritized policies to preserve the municipality's historical heritage and promote sustainable tourism, including the rehabilitation of traditional Canarian architecture and the enhancement of cultural sites like the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine to attract visitors while maintaining local identity.^[45] A notable shift occurred in 2018 when the PP secured its first mayoralty through a motion of censure, marking a break from decades of CC and PSOE dominance, though coalitions remain common to ensure governance stability.^[46] Administratively, Teror is divided into several barrios, or neighborhoods, which serve as units for delivering municipal services such as waste management, education, and community maintenance; key divisions include the Casco Histórico (historic center), El Álamo (encompassing sub-areas like Cuesta Falcón and Las Peñas), Arbejales (including Los Corrales and Lomontero), Barrio de San José del Álamo, El Palmar, Los Cedros, Los Llanos, Pino, and San Isidro. These barrios facilitate localized administration, with the ayuntamiento coordinating resources for infrastructure upkeep and social programs tailored to each area's needs, operating within the framework of Las Palmas Province for inter-municipal cooperation on regional issues like environmental protection.^[47] In 2025, the ayuntamiento's budget totaled €20,182,447.35, representing a 3.71% increase from the previous year, with allocations including €6.9 million for basic public services (roads and public works), €4.6 million for culture, education, and sports (heritage sites), and €2.4 million for protection and social promotion (green spaces and sustainability projects).^[48] This funding supports core services including education, social welfare, and waste collection, underscoring Teror's role as a key municipality in Las Palmas Province for balancing rural heritage with modern administrative demands.^[49]

Economic sectors

Teror's economy is primarily agrarian, with agriculture serving as a foundational sector that supports local food production and traditions. Traditional crops include potatoes, which are prominently cultivated and celebrated through events like the annual Feria Insular de la Papa, tomatoes used in regional dishes, and bananas grown in the fertile northern slopes of Gran Canaria. Livestock farming contributes significantly, particularly through pig rearing for charcuterie products such as chorizo and morcilla, which are staples of local gastronomy and distributed across the Canary Islands. The Fiesta del Agua, held annually in July in honor of San Isidro Labrador, plays a historical role in water management for farming, originating as 19th-century rogative celebrations to pray for rainfall during dry summers, thereby aiding crop irrigation and agricultural sustainability.^[50]^[51]^[52] The industrial and craft sectors in Teror focus on small-scale food processing, leveraging agricultural outputs to produce value-added goods. Notable activities include the artisanal production of pastries and sweets like truchas and marzipan, cheeses made from goat, sheep, or cow milk (often flavored with paprika or gofio), and the bottling of mineral water from local springs such as Fuente Agria under brands like Agua de Teror. These industries maintain a strong presence on the island, with three dedicated chorizo factories exemplifying the sector's reach. Historically, commerce in Teror experienced a decline in the 20th century, exacerbated by social conflicts, economic crises, and emigration waves, particularly to Cuba, which shifted focus from broader trade to localized manufacturing.^[27]^[51]^[53]^[27] Tourism has emerged as a vital modern sector since the late 1970s, fueled by Teror's designation as a Conjunto Histórico Artístico in 1979 and its religious heritage, including the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine. This growth has boosted hospitality and related services, attracting visitors for cultural pilgrimages and events like the Romería del Pino, thereby diversifying the economy beyond traditional agriculture. Employment in tourism centers on accommodations, guided tours, and restaurants, supporting seasonal and year-round jobs in the municipality.^[27] In terms of employment, Teror recorded an unemployment rate of 14.58% as of September 2025, reflecting broader Canary Islands trends but with a rural emphasis on primary sectors. The workforce is distributed across services (including tourism and hospitality), agriculture, and commerce, with services comprising the largest share amid ongoing economic diversification efforts.^[54]^[55]

Culture and heritage

Religious significance

Teror serves as the primary Marian pilgrimage center in Gran Canaria, with devotion centered on the Virgen del Pino, whose cult has defined the town's spiritual identity since its traditional apparition on September 8, 1481, atop a pine tree near the present-day Green Cross in what is now Virgen del Pino Square.^[3] The image, a Gothic wooden statue depicting the Virgin Mary holding the Child Jesus, was declared the patroness of Gran Canaria and the Diocese of the Canary Islands (encompassing Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura) through papal decree in 1914, solidifying her role as a unifying symbol of faith across the archipelago.^[56] There has been historical debate over whether the Virgen del Pino or the Virgen de la Candelaria is the principal patroness of the entire Canary Islands, given the diocesan divisions. Housed in the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pino, which was elevated to minor basilica status by the Holy See in 1916, the icon attracts devotees who adorn it with elaborate 16th-century dresses and jewelry, reflecting centuries of accumulated piety.^[57] The institutional prominence of the Virgen del Pino underscores Teror's ecclesiastical importance, as the basilica functions as a key sanctuary within the Diocese of the Canary Islands, drawing annual pilgrimages that embody communal devotion and historical ties to Canarian identity.^[3] The Romería-Ofrenda del Pino, held each September 7-8, gathers over 100,000 participants from across Gran Canaria and beyond, with the 2025 edition attracting approximately 250,000 to 300,000 visitors over the weekend, who offer food, flowers, and crafts in a procession that reinforces social bonds and regional solidarity.^[58]^[59] These events trace back to the early post-conquest era, when the apparition legend intertwined indigenous reverence for sacred sites with Catholic evangelization, fostering a devotion that extends to other islands through diocesan veneration and shared liturgical celebrations.^[60] The cultural impact of the Virgen del Pino permeates local customs, art, and daily devotion in Teror, where her image inspires folk crafts, music, and iconography that blend European Baroque influences with Canarian motifs, such as embroidered mantillas and pine-inspired motifs in religious art. This veneration has shaped Canarian identity by promoting themes of resilience and unity, evident in how pilgrims from Lanzarote and Fuerteventura incorporate her feast into their own traditions, while in Teror, roadside shrines and family altars perpetuate personal rituals tied to life's milestones.^[56] As of 2025, ongoing efforts to document historic pilgrimage routes, such as those from Artenara and Valleseco to Teror, highlight their ethnographic significance.^[61]

Architecture and landmarks

Teror's architecture reflects a blend of Canarian colonial influences, characterized by the use of local volcanic stone for walls and foundations, combined with wooden elements imported from the Canary Islands' trade networks.^[5] The town's built heritage incorporates stylistic elements from Mudejar, Baroque, and neoclassical periods, evident in the intricate wooden balconies (balcones canarios) that project from upper stories, allowing residents to overlook the streets while providing ventilation in the subtropical climate.^[3] These features are particularly prominent in the historic center, which was declared a Conjunto Histórico-Artístico in 1979 to protect its ensemble of traditional buildings.^[62] The Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pino stands as the preeminent landmark, a neoclassical structure whose construction began in 1760 and was completed in 1767, featuring a prominent yellow Gothic bell tower (Torre Amarilla) dating to 1708.^[5] Its facade includes three main doors flanked by twin towers, constructed from blue volcanic stone, and it serves as the repository for the revered statue of the Virgin of the Pine, linked to the site's legendary apparition atop a pine tree.^[5] Classified as a Monumento Nacional and Bien de Interés Cultural in 1976, the basilica underwent significant restorations in 1968–1969 to preserve its interior altarpiece and decorative elements.^[62] Other notable landmarks include the Casa Museo de los Patronos de la Virgen, a 17th-century manor house remodeled in the 18th century, showcasing preserved period furnishings, tapestries, and a silver throne from the Manrique de Lara family.^[3] Located in the Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Pino, it exemplifies Canarian señorial architecture with its wooden balconies and stone facade.^[3] Adjacent is the Calle Real de la Plaza, a cobblestoned pedestrian street developed from the 18th century and expanded in the mid-19th, lined with colorful colonial houses featuring elaborate tea-wood balconies that highlight the town's commercial and residential heritage.^[5] Several of these colonial residences, including those along the street, fall under the protection of the 1979 Conjunto Histórico-Artístico designation as Bienes de Interés Cultural.^[62] Preservation efforts in Teror have emphasized maintaining these features, with post-2000 initiatives including the 2001 declaration process for the Camino Real as a protected route and ongoing restorations of volcanic stone structures and wooden balconies to combat weathering.^[62] The Teror Auditorium, completed in 2006, represents a modern addition that integrates with the historic fabric using local stone, while broader municipal programs since the early 2000s have focused on rehabilitating balconies and facades to sustain the old town's cultural integrity.^[3]

Festivals and traditions

The primary annual festival in Teror is the Fiesta de la Virgen del Pino, held on September 8 to honor the patron saint of Gran Canaria, Nuestra Señora del Pino. This event features a grand pilgrimage known as the Romería, where thousands of participants in traditional Canarian attire—such as embroidered blouses, boleros, and wide skirts—process through the streets, carrying offerings of local produce like flowers, fruits, and agricultural goods in decorated carts. The celebrations include solemn masses in the Basilica del Pino, folk music performances, and evening processions illuminated by torches, culminating in fireworks and communal dances that foster a sense of island-wide unity.^[63]^[64] The fiesta was declared a Fiesta de Interés Turístico Nacional in 1965, recognizing its cultural significance and drawing pilgrims from across the Canary Islands.^[65] Another key tradition is the Fiesta del Agua, celebrated in late July to give thanks for rainfall and bountiful harvests, dedicated to San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. This weekend-long event centers on an agricultural fair showcasing livestock and crops, followed by a romería procession with floats and traditional wagons, folk dances like the Baile de Taifas, and a verbena evening party with live music and pyrotechnic displays. It highlights Teror's rural heritage, with participants engaging in communal activities that blend devotion and agrarian pride.^[66]^[67] The Día de las Marías takes place on the Sunday immediately following September 8, serving as an extension of the Virgen del Pino festivities with a neighborhood-based procession featuring multiple Marian images carried through Teror's streets. Devotees in regional costumes accompany the images, accompanied by the Banda de Música de Teror, emphasizing local devotion and family participation in a more intimate, community-oriented manner. The day includes a midday eucaristía and afternoon verbena with traditional music, reinforcing Marian veneration.^[68]^[69] Teror also observes Carnival in February or March, featuring costume contests, children's activities, a high-heel race, drag galas, and musical performances that infuse the town with vibrant, satirical energy reflective of Canarian festive spirit. Complementing these events are culinary customs, such as the preparation and sharing of conejo en salmorejo—a marinated rabbit stew with garlic, wine, and spices—often served during romerías and gatherings to symbolize hospitality and tie into the agricultural themes of the celebrations.^[70]

Infrastructure and transport

Urban layout

The urban layout of Teror centers on the historic Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Pino, which serves as the primary hub for social, religious, and commercial activities, surrounded by a network of narrow, pedestrian-friendly streets that emphasize the town's colonial heritage.^[2] This central square, framed by the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine and noble buildings, facilitates pedestrian zones throughout the old town, allowing visitors to navigate the compact core on foot while preserving its intimate scale.^[71] The layout radiates outward from the Basilica in a semi-organic pattern, blending structured streets with the undulating terrain of the surrounding valleys.^[71] Historically, Teror's planning emerged in the 16th century with a grid-like arrangement adapted to the hilly landscape, originating from the Huerta de la Virgen area and early settlements around the original ermita del Pino, as land was ceded by the parish for housing and public spaces.^[71] This foundational structure supported the town's growth as a pilgrimage site, with radial streets such as Calle Real de la Plaza, Calle de la Diputación, and Calle Herrería extending from the Basilica to accommodate processions and daily movement.^[2] By the 19th century, urban expansion accelerated through the urbanization of areas like Huerta de Matos after 1830, where parcels were sold for new constructions, establishing Calle Real as the key commercial axis lined with shops and residences that reflected Teror's economic prosperity during that era.^[71] These developments maintained a cohesive scale, integrating the grid with natural contours to avoid abrupt impositions on the topography.^[5] In modern times, Teror's layout incorporates green spaces such as Parque Doramas, a 207-hectare natural area located about 2 kilometers from the historic center, which provides recreational trails and buffers the town from denser urbanization while enhancing its appeal as a rural-urban interface.^[2] The old town seamlessly blends residential neighborhoods with tourist-oriented zones, where traditional structures coexist with contemporary facilities like the 2006 Auditorium of Teror, fostering a balanced environment that supports both locals and visitors.^[2] Preservation efforts, including the 1979 declaration of the historic center as an artistic ensemble and subsequent protection plans, have prioritized the integration of these elements without compromising the original spatial organization.^[71] Distinctive features include the balconied houses that line streets like Calle Real, their wooden or stone protrusions offering views over the verdant valleys and symbolizing 18th-century social prestige, as noted in historical accounts from the period.^[71] Additionally, the layout preserves pre-conquest rural paths influenced by indigenous Guanche routes, such as sections of the Camino de Mar a Cumbre incorporated into streets like Calle de la Mina, which trace ancient trails through the terrain and connect the urban core to surrounding natural areas.^[71]

Connectivity and access

Teror benefits from a well-integrated road network that facilitates access from major urban centers and neighboring municipalities. The primary route connecting Teror to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the GC-21 highway, a scenic and winding road spanning approximately 20 km and taking about 30-45 minutes by car. Local roads, such as those branching off the GC-21, provide straightforward links to nearby towns like Firgas, roughly 12 km away via the GC-291, enabling short drives of around 20 minutes. These connections support daily commuting and tourism flows, with road access playing a key role in sustaining the local economy through visitor influxes.^[72]^[73] Public transportation in Teror is primarily served by the Guaguas Global bus network, offering reliable interurban services without any rail options on the island. Bus line 216 runs frequently from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria's main station to Teror's central stop, with departures every 30 minutes during peak hours on weekdays, covering the 20 km journey in about 40 minutes; the service is free as part of the Canary Islands' public transport policy. Taxis are widely available for on-demand rides within and around the town, while limited bike-sharing stations in the town center promote short-distance mobility for locals and visitors. Complementing these, the old town's pedestrian-friendly paths and cobblestone streets allow easy navigation on foot, particularly around key sites like the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pino.^[72]^[74]^[75]^[76] Accessibility to Teror is enhanced by its proximity to Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), located about 35 km southeast and reachable in approximately 40 minutes by car or taxi via the GC-1 and GC-21 highways. The Canary Islands government's free public transport policy, in effect since January 2025 and extended until 2026, includes buses to Teror and aims to boost eco-friendly access and reduce reliance on private vehicles. However, the region's mountainous terrain poses challenges, with narrow, curving roads restricting heavy traffic and requiring careful driving, especially during peak tourist seasons. To accommodate pilgrims and festival attendees, designated parking areas and shuttle services are implemented, mitigating congestion around the historic center during events like the Fiesta de la Virgen del Pino.^[77]^[76]^[78]

References

[1]
Teror (Las Palmas, Canarias, Spain) - Population Statistics, Charts ...
Teror, Las Palmas ; Teror. 12,909 Population [2024] – Evaluation.Missing: Gran | Show results with:Gran
[2]
[PDF] Teror Tourist Guide - A place to feel
The town of Teror is loca- ted in the mid-mountain range on the north of. Gran Canaria. POPULATION. 13.000 aprox. SURFACE AREA. 25,8 km2. AVERAGE ALTITUDE.
[3]
Patron Saint 'Virgen del Pino' - Turismo de Teror
The historic part of the centre of Teror is one of the most important cultural heritages in the Canary Islands. Its religion and social influence flood the ...
[4]
Teror old town - Hello Canary Islands
A town born around the legend of the Virgin of the Pine. Teror, in north Gran Canaria, is one of the oldest towns in the Canary Islands.
[5]
Discover Teror - The Official Gran Canaria Tourist Website
Teror is a town in the midlands to the north of the island of Gran Canaria, around 20 km from the capital, once of the most ancient settlements on the island.
[6]
Teror - The Official Gran Canaria Tourist Website
The municipality of Teror is situated in the central eastern region of the island, at an altitude of 543 metres above sea-level.
[7]
Teror. Gran Canaria. Islas Canarias. España
A unos 20 km de la capital grancanaria se encuentra el municipio de Teror, a una altitud de 543 metros. Es conocido por la gran devoción que se profesa a la ...
[8]
Teror: el corazón de Gran Canaria - Guaguas Global
Aug 23, 2018 · Medianías Norte de Gran Canaria Dista 23 kilómetros (por carretera) de la capital. Linda con los municipios de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, ...Missing: altitud | Show results with:altitud
[9]
SABÍAS QUE… - Ayuntamiento de Teror
Feb 16, 2012 · El Casco urbano de Teror, a la altura de la Basílica del Pino, se encuentra a 589 m. de altitud y una de sus montañas más conocidas, el Pico de ...
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None
Summary of each segment:
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Espacios naturales - Mancomunidad del Norte de Gran Canaria
Esta gran diversidad de espacios es recogida por la Ley Canaria de Espacios Naturales Protegidos ... Protegido Municipio: Teror Superficie: 331,2 has. Valores ...Missing: porcentaje | Show results with:porcentaje
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Teror, Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain - City, Town and Village of the ...
Teror Area, 2,570 hectares 25.70 km² (9.92 sq mi). Teror Altitude, 601 m (1,972 ft). Teror Climate, Semi-arid climate (Köppen climate classification: BSk) ...
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Best time to go to Teror Average weather of Teror, Gran Canaria
Teror enjoys a cold steppe (or semi-arid) climate in accordance with the Köppen-Geiger classification. The yearly average maximum temperature in Teror is 72°F ( ...
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Teror Climate, Weather By Month, Average Temperature (Spain)
Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 52°F to 73°F and is rarely below 48°F or above 78°F.
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Teror Weather & Climate | Year-Round Guide with Graphs
What sets Teror apart is its consistently pleasant climate year-round, maintaining comfortable temperatures between 18.8°C and 25.3°C in every single month.
[16]
Teror Weather Today | Temperature & Climate Conditions
The average annual temperature in Teror ranges from 18 to 22 degrees Celsius (64 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit). During the summer months, from June to August, ...
[17]
Teror & the Finca de Osorio | The Wandering Wordsmith
Apr 7, 2016 · Finca de Osorio, near Teror, is a lush area with mountains, forests, and farmland, part of a larger park, and is free to visit.
[18]
The ancient forest that still whispers to you in Osorio
Its many hiding places are tucked away around the lush laurel tree forest, with footpaths lined with chestnut trees, oaks and orchards.
[19]
Doramas Rural Park: a laurel forest kingdom - Barcelo.com
Doramas Rural Park extends over 3500 hectares of land and it has a whole host of hiking routes and interesting areas for you to discover.
[20]
Parque Rural de Doramas - Hello Canary Islands
Located in the north of Gran Canaria, this beautiful rural park of great ecological and scenic value is named after the 15th century aboriginal warrior.
[21]
Gran Canaria Blue Chaffinch Fringilla Polatzeki Species Factsheet
Fringilla polatzeki is found only on Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, Spain, where it is presently known from only two locations.Missing: Doramas | Show results with:Doramas
[22]
Parque Rural de Doramas - Nature > - Cabildo de Gran Canaria
Three of these places, Azuaje, Barranco Oscuro and Los Tilos de Moya, are also of scientific interest as there are abundant laurel forests located here.
[23]
LAUREL FOREST : Its importance and what are its issues?
Jul 14, 2023 · The conservation of endemic Laurel forests in Gran Canaria is essential as they provide valuable ecological services: Carbon sequestration ...
[24]
Guanchía - Ayuntamiento de Teror
Caserío troglodita del municipio de Teror, situado al SE del Valle de El Palmar, a unos 500 m de altitud y a 2,5 de la Villa Mariana, habitado actualmente ...Missing: cave dwellings
[25]
History - The Official Gran Canaria Tourist Website
... Teror Old Town · Las Canteras · Botanical garden · Puerto de Las Nieves · Vegueta ... The conquest of the Island, which took place during the reign of the ...Missing: 1478-1483 | Show results with:1478-1483
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Teror - Mancomunidad de Ayuntamientos del Norte de Gran Canaria
Altitud capital municipio: 745 mts. Altitud máxima: 1.254 mts. Lugares de interés. Ayuntamiento de Teror.Missing: topografía espacios protegidos
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Basílica del Pino - Ayuntamiento de Teror
Tres han sido los templos que han acogido a la Virgen del Pino: la primitiva ermita de Santa María de Terore (s. XVI), la segunda iglesia parroquial ...Missing: establecida 1514
[28]
Teror: The Religious Center of Gran Canaria
Go on a pilgrimage or simply unwind in Teror, the religious core of Gran Canaria, and admire the coexistence of architecture, faith, history, and nature.The History of a Religious Center · What to Visit · How to Get to Teror
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Teror - pilgrimage center - Excursions Gran Canaria
Teror - beautiful historical and religious center of Gran Canaria great for lovers of pilgrimage places, culture monuments, nature, walks and tranquility.
[30]
Teror What to visit? - Canarias Shop
History of Teror. Teror was founded in the fifteenth century, this village was built in the forest that was located in the north of the island. This ...
[31]
The History of Gran Canaria: A Journey Through the Ages
Oct 25, 2024 · The 20th century brought both challenges and transformations to Gran Canaria, beginning with the effects of the Spanish Civil War and the ...
[32]
El Ayuntamiento de Teror aprueba su presupuesto de 17,8 millones ...
Jun 17, 2022 · Los impuestos indirectos ascenderán a 2.212.358,91 €. Por tasas, precios públicos y otros ingresos se recibirán 1.842.270,00 €. Por ...
[33]
Teror - Wikipedia
Teror is a municipality in the northern part of the island of Gran Canaria in the Province of Las Palmas in the Canary Islands. Its population is 12,671 (2013), ...
[34]
Visiting Teror, Gran Canaria: Nothing To Fear! - the flashpacker
Apr 29, 2025 · Teror is in the hills of Northern Gran Canaria, 16 miles southwest of the capital. map showing location of teror in gran canaria spain. Terror, ...Visiting Teror, Gran Canaria... · How I Did It (and What I... · What To See In Teror
[35]
Foresta - Sergio Armas - The Official Gran Canaria Tourist Website
The reforestation work has contributed to the improvement of water retention in the soil and the refilling of aquifers, a fundamental aspect in the Canary ...
[36]
Habitantes Teror 1900-2024 - Foro-ciudad.com
Evolución de la población desde 1900 hasta 2024. Segun los datos publicados por el INE a 1 de Enero de 2024 el número de habitantes en Teror es de 12.878, 79 ...
[37]
demographic balance, population trend, death rate, birth ... - UrbiStat
Rankings Municipality of teror · Birth rate[4]: 0.0‰ ( 904° place among 8132 municipalities) · Death rate[5]: 0.0‰ ( 904° place among 8132 municipalities) ...Missing: 21st century
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Un municipio con muchos barrios - Ayuntamiento de Teror
Teror se estructura en 11 entidades de población, que a su vez se componen de casi medio centenar de núcleos. Una de las características de los ...
[39]
Población - COMARCAS GRAN CANARIA - GEVIC
En Teror, las entidades con mayor número de población son El Palmar (1.337 hab), Arbejales (1.056 hab) y Teror capital (6.466 hab). (Fuente: ISTAC ...
[40]
San José del Álamo - Ayuntamiento de Teror
Este barrio colinda con el municipio de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria y tiene unos 450 empadronados en el municipio de Teror.Missing: hamlets Ingleses población
[41]
Los Llanos - Ayuntamiento de Teror
El barrio de Los Llanos ha tenido un gran crecimiento en los últimos años, como zona de expansión del Casco de Teror, con una población que supera actualmente ...Missing: hamlets Ingleses
[42]
Corporación Municipal del Ayuntamiento de Teror 2023-2026
La Corporación municipal de Teror está constituida por 17 concejales/as elegidos en las últimas elecciones municipales del 28 de mayo de 2023 con la ...
[43]
El socialista José Agustín Arencibia ya es el nuevo alcalde de Teror
Jun 14, 2025 · «Asumo con humildad y responsabilidad el honor de ser alcalde de Teror», dijo Arencibia tras jurar el cargo de primer edil en un salón de plenos ...
[44]
José Agustín Arencibia toma posesión como alcalde de Teror
Jun 14, 2025 · Con el nombramiento de José Agustín Arencibia como alcalde de Teror se cumple así el pacto de gobierno suscrito entre PP y PSOE para el ...
[45]
Organización - Ayuntamiento de Teror
La organización administrativa del Ayuntamiento de Teror se estructura en tres área principales: La Secretaría General (vela para que todos los asuntos ...
[46]
Patrimonio Histórico - Ayuntamiento de Teror
La Concejalía de Patrimonio Histórico de Teror ejerce las siguientes competencias que poseen los Ayuntamientos en materia de Patrimonio Cultural, ...Missing: 1990s | Show results with:1990s
[47]
José Luis Báez, primer alcalde del PP - La Provincia
Jan 3, 2018 · Los populares ostentan la Alcaldía de Teror por primera vez en su historia tras la moción de censura contra Isabel Guerra y después de ...
[48]
Teror - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre
Teror es una localidad y municipio español perteneciente a la isla de Gran Canaria, en la provincia de Las Palmas, comunidad autónoma de Canarias. ...Missing: topografía | Show results with:topografía
[49]
Barrio del Pino - Ayuntamiento de Teror
Populoso barrio de unos 1.800 habitantes situado en las cercanías del Centro urbano de Teror. En otros tiempos denominado como Rincón de Abajo, el Barrio ...
[50]
El Ayuntamiento de Teror aprueba su presupuesto de 17,8 millones ...
Jun 17, 2022 · Los impuestos indirectos ascenderán a 2.212.358,91 €. Por tasas, precios públicos y otros ingresos se recibirán 1.842.270,00 €. Por ...
[51]
Potato Fair in Teror - YouTube
Oct 17, 2025 · Hemos estado en directo en el municipio grancanario de Teror, lugar elegido para celebrar la séptima edición de la Feria de la Papa de Gran ...Missing: cultivos tradicionales papas tomates plátanos ganado charcutería
[52]
Gastronomía - Turismo de Teror
Teror es una villa emblemática de tradición y cultura, pero también muy conocida por su gastronomía. La agricultura ha jugado un papel importante en su ...Missing: charcutería | Show results with:charcutería
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Las fiestas del agua de Teror - La Provincia
Jul 4, 2022 · Las Fiestas del Agua eran desde el siglo XIX, celebraciones votivas o rogativas que sustituyeron en su fin primordial al que motivaba las ...
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Calidad - Aguas de Teror S.A
Aguas de Teror envasa y distribuye agua mineral natural a través de sus marcas AGUA DE TEROR y FUENTEROR. Tanto el "AGUA DE TEROR" como la de "FUENTEROR" ...Missing: ganadería charcutería queso
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Paro por municipios: Teror - (Las Palmas) 2025 - Datosmacro.com
Septiembre 2025, 14,58% ; 2024, 15,70% ; 2023, 17,07% ; 2022, 18,13%.
[56]
SITUACIÓN Y TENDENCIAS DEL EMPLEO POR SECTORES EN ...
May 22, 2024 · En Canarias, la distribución del empleo está dominada por el sector servicios, que incluye el turismo, el comercio y la hostelería (entre otros) ...Missing: Teror agricultura<|control11|><|separator|>
[57]
LA VIRGEN DEL PINO, PATRONA DE CANARIAS - La Provincia
Sep 7, 2009 · Hoy, 7 de septiembre, se cumplen 95 años que la Virgen del Pino entró en posesión perdurable del título oficial de principal patrona de la Dió ...
[58]
Basílica de la Virgen del Pino (Teror) - Tripadvisor
Rating 4.4 (482) Es unos de los templos más importantes de Canarias y ha recibido el título de basílica por parte de la Santa Sede en 1916. Consta de tres naves con arcos de ...
[59]
La Fiesta del Pino bate récord de participación este fin de semana ...
Sep 8, 2025 · Solo la víspera y noche del Día del Pino llegaron a Teror unas 195.000 personas y durante todo el fin de semana unas 250.000.
[60]
Virgen de la Candelaria y Virgen del Pino: el histórico debate sobre ...
Jun 8, 2025 · Por otro lado, la Virgen del Pino es la patrona de la Diócesis de Canarias, que abarca las islas de Gran Canaria, Lanzarote y Fuerteventura. Su ...
[61]
Vamos Pal Pino. Descubre todos los caminos a Teror
Explora todas las rutas y caminos populares con destino a la Virgen del Pino en Teror de Gran Canaria. Caminos llenos de historia, tradición y naturaleza.Missing: UNESCO | Show results with:UNESCO
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Patrimonio Bienes de Intéres - Ayuntamiento de Teror
Tanto el Casco Histórico de Teror como la Basílica del Pino,cuentan con la categoría de Bienes de Interés Cultural. El primero como “Conjunto Histórico” (1979) ...Missing: colonial houses
[63]
Fiestas and Information - The Official Gran Canaria Tourist Website
The major fiesta or festival held in Teror is the Fiesta in Honour of Nuestra Señora del Pino (Our Lady of the Pine), patron of the island of Gran Canaria.
[64]
El Pino Fiestas in Teror - The Official Gran Canaria Tourist Website
Ancient chronicles tell of an image of the Virgin that appeared without prior notice in Teror. Towards the end of the 15th century, the village of Teror was ...Missing: impact identity
[65]
Sesenta años de la Declaración de Interés Turístico Nacional de las ...
Aug 26, 2025 · Por ello, el 8 de julio de 1965 la Subsecretaría de Turismo concedió la denominación de “Fiesta de Interés Turístico” a las de Nuestra Señora ...Missing: declared | Show results with:declared
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Fiesta del Agua Teror 2025 - The Canary Guide LoveGranCanaria
Jul 9, 2025 · Teror is celebrating 'Fiesta del Agua' between 18-20 July 2025. Teror celebrates its Water Festival 2025, 'Fiesta del Agua' in honour of the ...Missing: agricultura | Show results with:agricultura
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Fiesta del Agua 2025 - Ayuntamiento de Teror
La tradicional Fiesta del Agua en Teror, en honor a San Isidro Labrador, se desarrollará el fin de semana del 18 al 20 de julio, con un programa de actos ...Missing: Gran Canaria
[68]
Teror celebra el domingo su fiesta patronal del Día de las Marías
Sep 12, 2025 · Teror celebra el domingo 14 de septiembre el Día de las Marías, una fecha singular para muchos peregrinos/as y devotos/as de la Patrona de la ...
[69]
FIESTA DEL PINO 2025 - TEROR
May 14, 2025 · Teror is celebrating 'Fiestas del Pino', in Honour of Nuestra Señora del Pino (Our Lady of the Pine), patron of the island of Gran Canaria.<|control11|><|separator|>
[70]
Teror Carnival 2025 - The Canary Guide LoveGranCanaria
Feb 24, 2025 · The Teror Carnival arrives at the end of March with children's activities, costume contests, a high heel race, a Drag gala, musical performances and concerts.
[71]
[PDF] El Casco Histórico de la Villa de Teror - Memoria digital de Canarias
Lll origen del casco histórico de Teror es la Huerta de la. Virgen, que el Obispo Vázquez de Arce en un Sínodo. Diocesano de 1514 anexionó a la Catedral ...<|separator|>
[72]
Getting there - The Official Gran Canaria Tourist Website
There are three routes to choose from to get to Teror. The first of these, considered the most scenic route, is the Terror road (Carretera de Teror GC-21).
[73]
Firgas - Teror driving directions - journey, distance, time and costs
Firgas Teror driving directions. Distance, cost (tolls, fuel, cost per passenger) and journey time, based on traffic conditions.
[74]
Line Info - Guaguas Global
... Gran Canaria · +34 928 25 26 30 · Global. Conectamos con lo que te mueve. Menu ... Teror - San Mateo, 215 Teror - Arucas - San Felipe, 216 Las Palmas de G.C. ...
[75]
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Teror - 3 ways to travel ... - Rome2Rio
Global Las Palmas operates a bus from Cruce de Almatriche to Casa Juanero hourly. Tickets cost €1–3 and the journey takes 30 min. Bus operators. Global Las ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[76]
Teror to Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) - 4 ways to travel via line ...
Yes, the driving distance between Teror to Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) is 37 km. It takes approximately 36 min to drive from Teror to Gran Canaria Airport (LPA).
[77]
OFFICIAL: Free public transport in the Canary Islands from 1st ...
Dec 24, 2024 · OFFICIAL: Free public transport in the Canary Islands from 1st January 2025 · Economic Relief: Reducing transportation expenses for thousands of ...
[78]
https://www.thecanarynews.com/2025/09/the-canary-guide-weekendtips-5-8-september-2025-el-charco/