The Canary Islands Autonomy Statute lays down that the cities of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria should share the status as the chief city. The seat of the Presidency of the government alternates between the two capitals according to parliamentary session.

SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE: It is the capital of the island of Tenerife and of the province of Santa Cruz. Rich in museums and architecture, many places of interest can be reached from the city, such as Teide Mountain, the highest peak in Spain, and the cities of Puerto de Cruz, a major tourist centre, and La Orotava, located in the gorgeous valley of the same name where the style of the houses served as the inspiration for many Latin American constructions.

LAS PALMAS DE GRAN CANARIA: It is the capital of the Island of Gran Canaria and the province of Las Palmas. Its Old Quarter has a beautiful Gothic catedral and other buildings of interest. A magnificent explosion of flowers and plants of the most varied types and colors makes the city en eternal spectacle. The Island of Gran Canaria is also renowned for its splendid beaches - 'La Playa del Ingles' and 'Maspalomas' - both of which are enormous.