What is the story behind Spain as the homeland of the Canaries The Canary Islands, a breathtaking archipelago located off the northwestern coast of Africa, have a rich and intriguing history. While the islands may seem disconnected from mainland Europe, they are, in fact, an integral part of Spain. So, what is the story behind Spain as the homeland of the Canaries? The discovery of the Canary Islands is often credited to the Phoenicians and the Greeks, who navigated these shores as early as the 5th century BC. These ancient seafaring explorers established trade routes that connected the Mediterranean with the mysterious "Fortunate Islands." The Romans, too, were aware of the existence of these enigmatic islands, though they did not venture to colonize them. It wasn't until the early 15th century that the islands were officially incorporated into Spanish territory. The credit for this accomplishment goes to two intrepid Genoese navigators: Lancelotto Malocello and Jean de Béthencourt. Malocello is believed to have arrived on the island of Lanzarote around the year 1312, where he established a brief settlement. Jean de Béthencourt, a Norman nobleman, embarked on his Canary adventure in the early 1400s. With the support of the Castilian crown, Béthencourt set sail, aiming to conquer the islands and secure them for Spain. In 1402, he landed on Lanzarote, setting his sights on building a permanent European presence in the Canaries. Béthencourt ultimately succeeded in capturing the islands of Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and El Hierro. However, it was during his absence that his nephew, Maciot de Béthencourt, faced fierce opposition from the indigenous people, known as Guanches, who strongly resisted the European colonization attempts. While the Spanish influence grew over time, the Canaries remained a relatively autonomous territory within the Spanish empire. It was not until the late 15th century, under the Catholic Monarchs, that the Canaries were fully incorporated into the Kingdom of Castile and became an integral part of Spain. The conquest of Gran Canaria in 1483 marked the final step in this process. The Spanish presence brought significant changes to the islands, both culturally and economically. Spanish settlers, along with their African slaves, introduced new crops, such as sugar cane and grapes, revolutionizing the local agricultural landscape. Trade, particularly with Spanish America, thrived, making the islands a crucial stopover for ships traveling between Europe and the New World. Throughout history, the Canary Islands were also a strategic point in naval routes, resulting in numerous attempts at invasion and colonization. The islands served as a supply base during the conquest of America and found themselves targeted by pirates and privateers seeking to plunder Spanish wealth. Fast forward to the present, the Canaries maintain their unique identity within Spain. The islands, known for their stunning volcanic landscapes, palm-fringed beaches, and year-round mild climate, continue to be a major tourist destination. The archipelago enjoys a significant degree of autonomy within Spain, with its own government and locally elected representatives. So, the story behind Spain as the homeland of the Canaries is one of exploration, conquest, integration, and unique cultural development. From the earliest influences of Phoenicians and Greeks to the conquest led by Béthencourt, and eventual Spanish control, the Canaries have become an inseparable part of Spain's history, adding their own vibrant flavor to the country's cultural tapestry.