The island became a resting and refueling station for explorers crossing the Atlantic. In 1492, Christopher Columbus stopped on Gran Canaria for repairs before proceeding to the New World. He returned on his second and fourth voyages to resupply his ships. Each of the Canary Islands has a similar, yet distinct, culture. Though they probably came from the same general area in North Africa, each island population created its own identity, a mixture of African roots and new traditions.
Many sites give evidence of an agrarian culture with a religious system based on fertility rites.
Finds such as complex burials and organized food storage and distribution systems reveal a well-developed hierarchical society. As more study is made of the island's archaeological remains, Gran Canaria's past continues to unfold. Assistance was given by the Tourism Office of Gran Canaria.