Arteara Necropolis
Explore the largest aboriginal cemetery in Gran Canaria, a vast ancient burial ground with over a thousand tombs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness celestial alignment.
Arteara Necropolis
Best Time
Witness celestial alignment.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the largest aboriginal cemetery in Gran Canaria, a vast ancient burial ground with over a thousand tombs.
"A fascinating glimpse into the island's past, set amidst stunning natural beauty."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be rough and steep; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the site.
⏰ Check Visitor Center Hours
The visitor center closes at 2 PM, but the site is accessible via public footpaths afterward.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tumulus of the King
Arteara Necropolis
A significant burial mound, aligned with the spring equinox sunrise.
Aboriginal Burial Mounds
Arteara Necropolis
Explore over a thousand ancient tombs, offering a glimpse into Guanche burial practices.
Visitor Center & Museum
Arteara Necropolis
Learn about the island's original inhabitants and their funerary rites through informative exhibits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Accessibility & Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be rough and steep; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the site.
⏰ Check Visitor Center Hours
The visitor center closes at 2 PM, but the site is accessible via public footpaths afterward.
🚌 Bus Access
Bus 45 from Maspalomas is an option, but check schedules as they are infrequent.
🚶♀️ Walk from Village
Park in Arteara village and enjoy a scenic 1km walk to the Necropolis.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be rough and steep; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the site.
⏰ Check Visitor Center Hours
The visitor center closes at 2 PM, but the site is accessible via public footpaths afterward.
🚌 Bus Access
Bus 45 from Maspalomas is an option, but check schedules as they are infrequent.
🚶♀️ Walk from Village
Park in Arteara village and enjoy a scenic 1km walk to the Necropolis.
☀️ Equinox Significance
Visit during the spring equinox to see the sunrise align with the Tumulus of the King.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Arteara Necropolis an informative and culturally significant site, offering a glimpse into the island's aboriginal past. While the visitor center has limited hours, the archaeological site remains accessible and impressive. The natural landscape surrounding the Necropolis is also a major draw for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
"Informative site, unfortunately the visitors centre closed at 2pm , but you can still access the site on a public footpath at the side after this time. The graves show you just how a pile of stones can be important archaeological and culturally."
Andy Naylor
"We parked the car at the beginning of Arteara and walked through the village. When reaching the Necropolis after an approx.1 km walk, we decided we had seen enough sculls & bones at the musuem in Las Palmas. Instead, we walked back through the ”jungle” of high palm-trees and other huge plants. No machete needed!"
mwikman2009
"Small but interesting little museum about the original inhabitants of the island and their burial rites. We caught the 18 bus from Playas del Ingles to Arteatra where we were walking back to Maspolamas on the dirt road which is well signposted."
Pjp
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Arteara Necropolis by car, with free parking available at the museum. Alternatively, bus 45 from Maspalomas serves the area, though services can be infrequent.
Many visitors also choose to park in Arteara village and enjoy a pleasant 1km walk to the site.
Yes, bus 45 from Maspalomas is an option, but it's crucial to check the timetable beforehand as the bus routes are not very frequent.
Absolutely! Parking in Arteara village and walking about 1 km to the Necropolis is a popular and scenic option.
Many visitors park near the village and walk, or drive directly to the museum parking. The choice depends on your preference for a short hike or direct access.
Guided tours are sometimes available, particularly around significant dates like the spring equinox, often organized by local archaeology groups.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance to the archaeological site itself is often free via public footpaths. However, a combined ticket for all archaeological sites on the island costs around €10, or individual tickets for the Necropolis are approximately €4 (€2 for students).
The visitor center and museum typically close at 2 PM. However, the archaeological site remains accessible via public footpaths even after the visitor center closes.
For general access via public footpaths, no advance booking is usually required. If you are interested in specific guided tours or events, it's advisable to check with local tour operators or archaeological groups.
Accessing the site via public footpaths after the visitor center closes is generally free.
The museum is part of the visitor center, and access to its exhibits is typically included with an entrance ticket or a combined archaeological site ticket.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the vast collection of over a thousand aboriginal burial mounds, including the notable Tumulus of the King.
The footpaths around the Necropolis can be rough and steep in places, requiring sturdy footwear. Some routes follow different paths around the tombs, offering varied perspectives of the landscape.
Yes, there is a small but well-laid-out visitor center and museum that explains the history of the area and the burial process of the original inhabitants.
The Tumulus of the King is a prominent burial mound that is astronomically aligned, with the sunrise on the spring equinox illuminating it through a specific opening.
Many visitors combine their trip to the Necropolis with hikes through the beautiful landscape of southern Gran Canaria, such as the Barranco de Fataga.
📸 📸 Photography
The Necropolis offers dramatic landscapes with ancient tombs scattered across rocky terrain.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Arteara Necropolis. Capturing the vastness of the burial mounds and the surrounding natural beauty is highly encouraged.
Early morning, especially around sunrise, offers magical light and can coincide with the equinox alignment.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's always advisable to check local regulations regarding drone usage in protected archaeological or natural areas.
Expect to capture wide-angle shots of the expansive burial site, close-ups of the stone tumuli, and panoramic views of the surrounding canyons and mountains.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making the visit part of a larger outing, perhaps combining it with a less strenuous walk or a picnic in the scenic surroundings.
The open space allows children to move around, and the concept of ancient burial sites can be a captivating topic for discussion. Comfortable shoes and plenty of water are essential for a pleasant family outing. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1 The trails offer a chance to experience the island's unique geology and flora, with opportunities for stunning photography. Plan your hike to include a visit to the Necropolis itself, appreciating the historical significance of the site amidst the natural beauty.
Remember to wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy footwear and sun protection, and carry sufficient water, as facilities can be limited. 🏛️ History Buffs and Archaeologists
+1 The Tumulus of the King and its astronomical alignment are particularly noteworthy. Make sure to visit the visitor center and museum to gain a deeper understanding of the archaeological context.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Guanche People and Their Legacy
The sheer scale of the site underscores the importance of their ancestors and burial rituals in their culture. Exploring the Necropolis offers a tangible connection to this ancient civilization, allowing visitors to ponder their way of life and beliefs. Archaeological findings at Arteara, including the Tumulus of the King, reveal sophisticated knowledge of astronomy and the natural world. The alignment of certain structures with celestial events, such as the spring equinox sunrise, highlights their advanced understanding of the cosmos.
This astronomical precision suggests a deep spiritual connection to the land and the cycles of nature, a theme echoed in their art and traditions. The visitor center provides crucial context, explaining the funerary rites and the cultural significance of these burial sites.
Experiencing the Equinox at Arteara
+1 Visitors who time their trip to coincide with this event can witness a remarkable natural phenomenon: the sunrise aligning with the Tumulus of the King. This celestial event is believed to have been intentionally incorporated into the site's design by the Guanches, demonstrating their advanced astronomical knowledge. Witnessing the equinox sunrise at Arteara is described as a magical experience, connecting visitors to the ancestral traditions and the natural rhythms of the island.
The alignment is achieved through a specific opening in the landscape, allowing the sun's rays to illuminate the royal tomb. This natural spectacle is a powerful reminder of the deep spiritual and cultural connection the Guanches had with their environment. While the equinox is a peak time for visitors interested in this phenomenon, it's important to note that it can draw larger crowds.
For those seeking a more serene experience, visiting outside of this specific event still offers a profound connection to the site's history and natural beauty. Hiking and Nature Around the Necropolis
Many visitors combine their exploration of the archaeological site with treks through the surrounding valleys, such as the picturesque Barranco de Fataga. The terrain offers a mix of rocky paths and lush vegetation, providing a diverse hiking experience. Routes around the Necropolis can vary in difficulty, with some paths being slightly rough and steep.
+1 The area is characterized by its dramatic rock formations and expansive vistas, making it a photographer's paradise. For those looking to extend their adventure, trails can lead to other points of interest or simply offer a chance to immerse oneself in the tranquil, natural beauty of Gran Canaria.
The combination of historical exploration and outdoor activity makes a visit to Arteara Necropolis a well-rounded and memorable experience. 
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