San Sebastián de la Gomera is steeped in history, with its most famous claim to fame being its connection to Christopher Columbus. It was from this city that Columbus set sail on his first voyage to the New World in 1492, and visitors can explore this part of history through landmarks such as the Casa de Colón (Columbus House) and the Torre del Conde, a 15th-century tower that once served as a military stronghold.
The city has been shaped by a variety of cultural influences over the centuries, including the Guanches (the original inhabitants of the Canary Islands), Spanish settlers, and later European visitors. These influences are reflected in the city’s architecture, customs, and festivals. One of the city’s most important cultural events is the “Romería de San Sebastián,” a traditional festival held in January in honor of the town’s patron saint. This event brings together locals and visitors for a lively celebration featuring music, dance, and processions.
In addition to religious festivities, La Gomera is famous for “Silbo Gomero,” an ancient whistling language used by the island’s inhabitants to communicate across the island’s deep ravines and mountains. This unique aspect of the local culture has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, and visitors can witness demonstrations of this tradition in San Sebastián.