La Palma is much more than just a natural paradise. Its history, technological advancements, and unique features make it a one-of-a-kind place, full of details that surprise even regular visitors. Here, we invite you to discover some Interesting facts about La Palma, this Atlantic gem that you might not have known.
La Palma Curiosities
- The Most Western and Remote Island
La Palma is the westernmost of the Canary Islands and, therefore, the farthest from the Spanish mainland. This geographic location enhances its unique and special character.
- Home to the World’s Largest Telescope
At the impressive Roque de los Muchachos, over 2,400 meters above sea level, stands the Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC), also known as Grantecan. It is the largest optical and infrared telescope in the world, making La Palma a global hotspot for astronomical tourism.
- A Pioneer in Press and Telegraphy
On July 12, 1863, at the corner of Calle Anselmo Pérez de Brito, the first newspaper in the Canary Islands, titled El Time, was published. This historic milestone made Santa Cruz de La Palma the first city in the archipelago to have printed press. Additionally, the capital hosted the first telegraph service. - An Unaltered Charm
Santa Cruz de La Palma is the only Canary Islands capital that remains exactly where it was originally founded, preserving its essence and authenticity throughout the centuries. - The Birthplace of Spain’s First Democratic Town Hall
Santa Cruz de La Palma holds a special place in Spain’s democratic history, as it was the first city in the country to establish a democratically elected town hall.
- A Pioneer in Electricity and Telephony
In 1893, Santa Cruz de La Palma became one of the first cities in the world to have electric lighting. Additionally, it was the tenth city in Spain to introduce telephone service. - The First “Cabalgata de Reyes” in the Canary Islands
In 1915, Santa Cruz de La Palma was the first city in the Canary Islands to organize this traditional event, which continues to be celebrated to this day. - The Court of the Indies
Santa Cruz hosted the first “Juzgado de las Indias” (Court of the Indies), a key institution in Spanish colonial administration, highlighting its importance in maritime and commercial history.
- A Sustainable Airport
La Palma’s airport is a model of sustainability, being the first airport building in all of Spain powered entirely by wind energy. - Apocalyptic Cinema and the Megatsunami Theory
In 2019, Netflix began filming (completing it after the Tajogaite volcanic eruption in 2021) an apocalyptic series based on the debunked theory of a megatsunami caused by a volcanic eruption in La Palma. While most of the series was filmed on the island, some scenes were shot in Tenerife. For instance, the fictional “Playa Bonita” does not exist on La Palma, so there is no point in searching for it. The name might have been inspired by the “Cueva Bonita,” a spectacular attraction on the island’s west coast, accessible only by boat tours. Remember, it’s all fiction!
