The Canary Islands. A chance to see the Edge of the World.
Over the centuries these islands were regarded as some mythic territories behind the Pillars of Hercules inhabited by angels or innocent souls, or even occupied by the Garden of Hesperides. Some say the Canaries are the islands left of the legendary Atlantis. Is it true? Or just a wonderful fairy tale? But anyway the Canaries have always been mysterious, alluring, magnificent.
Oddly enough, but the island's name comes from the latin word canis — dog. Why so? Are there many dogs? Or it used to be inhabited by beautiful gods? Actually the dogs were really bred on the islands. And that’s why the Mauretanian king Juba II named them Canaria during his visit. So let’s explore what the Canaries can offer to the travelers? You may be sure – anything you want! And that’s all due to their diversity and originality of every island. Though they all are volcanic in origin, their landscape impresses with variety. Emerald surface of plains give place to steep mountain peaks, numerous sandy beaches – to fertile fields covered with mandarin gardens. But a warm sea welcomes you at any corner of archipelago and a clear blue sky makes you forget all your troubles.
One of the islands, Lanzarote, is famous for its unusual concert hall, which is situated inside one of the biggest caves in the world. This island differs from the others due to its picturesque and severe volcanic sceneries. The island Fuerteventura can offer to the tourists the best sandy beaches. The title of the most blooming island goes to La Palma. La Gomera attracts by its virgin nature. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are best known for their annual carnivals, which are not less colorful or grandiose than those in Rio-de-Janeiro. This is a sumptuous costume parade, passionate dances, cheerful games and contests. all this accompanied by a beautiful nature, hospitable atmosphere and festive mood. And finally – El Hierro, the island that will help you to escape to the edge of the world. Over the centuries this island has been the most mysterious and symbolized “the end of the earth”. That is why the Canaries used to be the edge of the world.
