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The [[archipelago]] is volcanic in origin and contains Western [[Europe]]’s highest [[volcano]], Mount Teide which is a [[World Heritage]] site and an extremely popular tourist attraction. Good beaches, a mild sub-tropical maritime climate and the mixture of Spanish and African influences make the islands one of the most visited international holiday destinations on earth. Whilst mostly rugged and barren, the many valleys support agriculture in the form of grains, citrus fruits, figs and wines.

The [[archipelago]] is volcanic in origin and contains Western [[Europe]]’s highest [[volcano]], Mount Teide which is a [[World Heritage]] site and an extremely popular tourist attraction. Good beaches, a mild sub-tropical maritime climate and the mixture of Spanish and African influences make the islands one of the most visited international holiday destinations on earth. Whilst mostly rugged and barren, the many valleys support agriculture in the form of grains, citrus fruits, figs and wines.

In ancient times it was known as “The Fortunate Isles”. It was rediscovered by [[Portugal|Portuguese]] mariners in 1341, but granted to [[Castile]] by the [[Pope]] in 1344 and formally possessed in 1401. These latter discoverers found dogs there and the archipelago’s name derives from the [[Latin]] for dog – canis. It was fought over in the fifteenth century by [[Castile]] and Portugal whilst vying for the West African trade; then acquired by [[Aragon]].

In ancient times it was known as “The Fortunate Isles”. It was rediscovered by [[Portugal|Portuguese]] mariners in 1341, but granted to [[Castile]] by the [[Pope]] in 1344 and formally possessed in 1401. These latter discoverers found dogs there and the archipelago's name derives from the [[Latin]] for dog – canis. It was fought over in the fifteenth century by [[Castile]] and Portugal whilst vying for the West African trade; then acquired by [[Aragon]].

During the [[Age of Exploration]] and colonial times it was the last “water hole” before setting off for the New World. Not only the Spanish, but other venturers used it  - especially Tenerife - as a way station – legally or not; [[Francis Drake|Drake]] called there to his detriment on his way to the Indies in 1595. The [[English]] “[[First Fleet]]”  the convict laden vessels on their way to settle [[New South Wales]] in 1787, resupplied there.

During the [[Age of Exploration]] and colonial times it was the last “water hole” before setting off for the New World. Not only the Spanish, but other venturers used it  - especially Tenerife - as a way station – legally or not; [[Francis Drake|Drake]] called there to his detriment on his way to the Indies in 1595. The [[English]] “[[First Fleet]]”  the convict laden vessels on their way to settle [[New South Wales]] in 1787, resupplied there.