How Was Puerto de Mogán Actually Built?

Puerto de Mogán, affectionately known as "Little Venice," owes much of its charm to its thoughtful development, spearheaded by Rafael Neville, Count of Berlanga. Born into nobility in Malaga, Spain, Neville had a vision to transform the small, sleepy fishing village of Puerto de Mogán into a thriving resort without compromising its Spanish architectural heritage. In 1982, faced with the limitations of physical and economic expansion, Neville and his partner Riccardi embarked on an ambitious project to reclaim land from the deep Atlantic Ocean. By 1984, this vision was realized, and the new Puerto de Mogán was born, featuring a blend of traditional Spanish architecture and modern amenities

This transformation was no small feat, considering the original state of the village. Before the construction of the resort, Playa de Mogán was a cluster of houses interconnected by narrow passageways and steps, hugging the cliffside, with fishermen's huts dotting the beach. The old village and the port were separated by Avenida de la Castillete, marking the original shoreline. In those days, without a harbor, fishing boats had to be launched directly from the beach, highlighting the village's humble beginnings

Puerto de Mogán's design avoided the pitfalls of becoming another generic, modern resort. Instead, it emerged as an original and beautiful marina, adorned with charming buildings, bougainvillea arches, and canals that invite comparisons to Venice. It's now widely regarded as Gran Canaria's most attractive resort, complete with a little sandy beach, numerous restaurants, and an abundance of bougainvillea and coconut palm trees. Its unique charm places it on every Gran Canaria visitor's bucket list.

The creation of Puerto de Mogán is a remarkable example of human ingenuity and determination to adapt and beautify a natural landscape for both utility and aesthetic appeal. From a modest fishing village into a vibrant tourist destination through an extensive development project that involved using materials sourced directly from the surrounding mountains.

The construction of the port involved significant engineering work, including the development of artificial waterways, reminiscent of Venice, which earned Puerto de Mogán the nickname "Little Venice." These waterways, along with the carefully designed architecture, contribute to the unique charm of the area, with its labyrinth of pathways inviting exploration and admiration.

The houses and buildings around the port were designed to maintain the architectural characteristics of traditional Spanish villages.

This project was not just about creating a new tourist destination; it was about reimagining and reshaping a space in a way that honored its past while paving the way for a prosperous future. The result is a testament to the vision and hard work of the developers, architects, and builders who turned the dream of a thriving seaside resort into a reality, offering both locals and visitors a place of beauty and tranquility.

Puerto de Mogán today stands as a vibrant community and a popular destination for tourists seeking both the charm and the amenities of a modern resort. Its artificial port, built with stones from the mountains, is a centerpiece of this transformation, symbolizing the successful blend of natural beauty and human innovation.

The area's rich heritage is also marked by significant archaeological and ethnological sites. Notably, the municipality houses three properties of cultural interest in the "archaeological zone" category, including Cañada de los Gatos or Lomo los Gatos at the mouth of the Mogán ravine.

Over the past 20 years, Puerto de Mogán has seen significant development in its hospitality landscape, marking a transformative period from a quaint fishing village to a sought-after resort destination. At the forefront of this transformation was the Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa, celebrat for its 20 years anniversary as an architectural masterpiece nestled in an idyllic setting. This hotel has been a beacon of luxury, elegance, and exceptional service, earning accolades and affection from guests worldwide. Styled as a Canarian village, it's not just a place to stay but an experience, featuring rooms and spectacular pools amidst a fascinating botanical garden with over 450 plant species

Following the success of Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa, the development continued with the addition of Apartments Cordial Mogán Valle, a family-friendly establishment offering spacious, modern, and bright apartments. The facilities cater to both relaxation and fun, with extensive solarium areas, pools, and a wellness spa among other amenities, ensuring a memorable stay for guests.

The upscale Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Gran Canaria Mogan, is another notable addition, offering a luxury experience with its modern amenities, spa, and swimming pools, further cementing Puerto de Mogán's status as a premium destination.

This development journey began from a single hotel, Hotel Puerto Mogán, positioned uniquely in the harbor area, directly overlooking the beach. It played a pivotal role in the initial phase of the area's tourism development, offering visitors a gateway to the charming village now renowned for its beauty and hospitality.

Together, these establishments reflect a carefully curated evolution, enhancing Puerto de Mogán's appeal while preserving the essence of its original charm. The area's strategic development over the last few decades, led by visionaries and supported by the community, has transformed it into a vibrant, luxurious destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility in one of the world's most favorable climates.

. So did you know that the whole port is artificial and built ?