Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are a group of islands located in the Atlantic Ocean, on the northwestern side of Africa. Out of the thirteen islands in the group, only seven are inhabited. The total population of the islands is 1,493,784. The Canary Islands are very fertile in terms of soil, vegetation, and crops. The climate is mild, making it a popular resort community.

The islands were formed through volcanic activity, making them very mountainous. Historians believe that the Phoenicians and the Carthaginians first inhabited the islands. The Roman scholar Pliny reported that many wild dogs roamed the islands, which is why it got the name Canaria. Hundreds of years later, the islands belonged to Queen Catharine of Castile, and then to Henry the Navigator of Portugal. In 1479, they were given back to Spain. Then in 1927, the islands were divided into two provinces, Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife.  Even though the Islands are closer to Africa than any other continent, they have always had a European tradition.

Sites for further Information

   "Guia Turistica de las Islas Canarias / The Official Canary Island Home Page"
    http://www.canary-islands.com/

   "A Visit to the Canary Islands"
    http://www.canaryweb.es/cw/pg/can/cani.htm

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