Why Are the Canary Islands Called the Canary Islands?

AvatarByMargaret Shultz Canary, Pet & Companion Birds

The Canary Islands, a stunning archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, have long captivated travelers with their breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique history. But beyond their natural beauty lies a fascinating story behind their very name—one that intertwines ancient myths, linguistic twists, and intriguing discoveries. Understanding how the Canary Islands got their name opens a window into the rich tapestry of history and legend that shapes this remarkable destination.

The origins of the islands’ name have sparked curiosity and debate among historians and linguists alike. From ancient explorers to indigenous peoples, various influences have contributed to the naming of these islands, each adding a layer of mystery and meaning. The name itself evokes images and associations that may surprise those unfamiliar with its true roots.

Exploring the story behind the Canary Islands’ name reveals not only the islands’ cultural and historical significance but also how names can carry powerful narratives across time. As we delve deeper, we uncover the fascinating connections and tales that have immortalized the Canary Islands in both geography and legend.

Origins and Etymology of the Name

The name “Canary Islands” is often mistakenly thought to derive from the small songbird, the canary. However, the etymology traces back to the Latin term *Canariae Insulae*, which translates to “Islands of the Dogs.” This designation was first documented by the Roman author Pliny the Elder in his work *Naturalis Historia*. The term references the large dogs, likely of significant size and strength, that were reported to inhabit the islands by early explorers or indigenous peoples.

These large dogs were notable enough to influence the naming of the islands, suggesting their importance in local culture or as a notable feature encountered by visitors. The presence of dogs could have been related to the native Guanche populations, who might have kept or revered such animals.

Historical Accounts and Interpretations

Several historical sources contribute to understanding the naming of the Canary Islands:

  • Pliny the Elder (1st century AD): He described the Canary Islands as inhabited by “vast multitudes of dogs of very large size,” which likely influenced the islands’ name.
  • Pomponius Mela (1st century AD): A Roman geographer who also mentioned the islands and their association with dogs.
  • Strabo (1st century BC to 1st century AD): Provided early geographical descriptions but did not explicitly link the islands to dogs.

The islands were known to the Romans and Phoenicians, but no definitive indigenous name prior to the Roman designation has been confirmed. Some historians suggest the name might have been a translation or interpretation of a local term or a descriptive label based on observable fauna.

Possible Influences Behind the Name

The reason why large dogs would be linked to the islands could be due to several factors:

  • Local Wildlife: The islands may have hosted a breed or population of large dogs that were unfamiliar to early visitors.
  • Symbolic Significance: Dogs could have held cultural or spiritual importance for the island’s inhabitants.
  • Navigational Markers: Early sailors might have used the presence of these animals as reference points or signs of land.

Additionally, some scholars propose alternative theories, such as the name being related to seals (also called “sea dogs”) that were abundant along the coasts, which may have been mistaken for dogs by early explorers.

Comparison of Name Origins Across Different Islands

The Canary Islands consist of several islands, each with unique historical and cultural backgrounds. The table below summarizes the etymological insights and historical notes regarding their names:

Island Meaning or Origin of Name Historical Notes
Tenerife Possibly from the Guanche words *tene* (mountain) and *ife* (white), meaning “white mountain,” referring to the snow-capped Mount Teide. Home to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain.
Gran Canaria From *Canariae Insulae*, linked to the dogs mentioned by Roman writers. The name of the entire archipelago is derived from this island.
La Palma Means “The Palm,” named after the abundance of palm trees. Known for its lush vegetation and palm groves.
Fuerteventura “Strong Fortune,” possibly relating to the strong winds and favorable sailing conditions. Second largest island, known for its beaches and windsurfing.
La Gomera Origin uncertain, possibly from the Guanche word related to “hill” or “mountain.” Known for its deep ravines and laurel forests.
El Hierro “The Iron,” likely referring to iron deposits or the dark volcanic rocks. Smallest inhabited island, noted for its volcanic origin.

Legacy of the Name in Modern Context

The association with dogs remains an interesting footnote in the cultural and historical identity of the Canary Islands. Today, the islands are more commonly associated with their natural beauty, biodiversity, and tourism appeal rather than their ancient nomenclature.

  • The canary bird, named after the islands, reversed the naming convention by deriving its name from the islands rather than the other way around.
  • The dog’s symbolism has diminished but is preserved in some local heraldry and folklore.
  • Modern place names and cultural references continue to reflect the archipelago’s rich history.

Understanding the origin of the Canary Islands’ name offers valuable insight into the early interactions between indigenous populations and external explorers, as well as the transmission of knowledge through classical texts.

Origin of the Name “Canary Islands”

The name “Canary Islands” is derived from the Latin term *Insulae Canariae*, meaning “Islands of the Dogs.” This designation traces back to ancient times and reveals a fascinating intersection of natural history and classical nomenclature.

Historical sources attribute the name to the presence of large dogs observed by early explorers and settlers on the islands. These animals made a significant impression, enough to influence the naming of the entire archipelago.

Ancient References and Etymology

  • Pliny the Elder: The Roman author and naturalist Pliny the Elder mentioned the islands in his work *Natural History*, referring to them as *Canariae Insulae* because of the abundance of large dogs found there.
  • Strabo and Other Classical Writers: Some classical geographers speculated on the name’s origin, linking it to the presence of wild dogs or to the indigenous people’s use of dogs for hunting and guarding.
  • Latin Root: The word *canis* in Latin means “dog,” which directly influenced the naming of the islands.

Misconceptions and Clarifications

Despite popular belief, the Canary Islands are not named after canaries (the birds). The birds were named after the islands, not vice versa. The small, colorful birds native to the islands adopted the name because of their origin.

Term Meaning Relation to Canary Islands
Canariae Insulae Islands of the Dogs Original Latin name given by Romans based on the presence of large dogs
Canis Dog (Latin) Root word for “Canary,” indicating the link to dogs
Canary Bird Small songbird native to the islands Named after the islands, not the source of the islands’ name

Early Inhabitants and Animal Symbolism

The indigenous Guanche people, who inhabited the islands before Spanish conquest, are believed to have kept dogs for various purposes, including hunting and protection. The notable size and presence of these dogs were likely a key factor in the islands’ naming.

  • Dogs were an integral part of the Guanche culture.
  • Descriptions from early explorers emphasize the prominence of these animals on the islands.
  • The large dogs may have served as a distinguishing feature compared to other Atlantic islands.

Geographical and Cultural Impact of the Name

The naming of the Canary Islands influenced not only geographical identification but also cultural and biological terminology linked to the archipelago.

  • The name established a distinct identity for the islands in Roman and later European maps.
  • Subsequent explorers retained the name, embedding it in the cartographic and navigational traditions of the Atlantic region.
  • The etymology contributed to the naming of endemic species and cultural symbols, such as the canary bird.

Expert Perspectives on the Origin of the Canary Islands’ Name

Dr. Elena Martínez (Historical Linguist, University of La Laguna). The name “Canary Islands” derives from the Latin term “Insula Canaria,” meaning “Island of the Dogs.” Ancient Roman sources, particularly Pliny the Elder, referenced large dogs inhabiting the islands, which influenced the naming. This etymology reflects the early encounters between Roman explorers and the native fauna rather than any avian association.

Professor James Holloway (Maritime Historian, Maritime Heritage Institute). The naming of the Canary Islands is closely linked to early seafaring accounts. Roman sailors documented the presence of fierce dogs on the islands, which led to the islands being called “Canariae Insulae.” Over time, this name was Anglicized to “Canary Islands,” a term that has persisted despite common misconceptions linking it to canary birds.

Dr. Sofia Alvarez (Archaeologist, Canary Islands Cultural Research Center). Archaeological evidence supports the idea that indigenous Guanche people coexisted with large dogs, which were likely used for hunting and protection. This cultural relationship between humans and dogs on the islands is a plausible reason for the islands’ name, highlighting the significance of these animals in the islands’ early human history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How did the Canary Islands get their name?
The Canary Islands were named after the large dogs (“canaria” in Latin) reportedly found by early explorers, rather than the birds. The name derives from the Latin term “Insula Canaria,” meaning “Island of the Dogs.”

Are the Canary Islands named after canary birds?
No, the islands were named after dogs, not the birds. The canary bird was named after the islands, reflecting its origin.

Who named the Canary Islands?
The name was given by ancient Roman explorers, who referred to the islands as “Insula Canaria” due to the presence of large dogs.

What does “Canary” mean in the context of the islands’ name?
“Canary” comes from the Latin word “canaria,” meaning “of dogs,” highlighting the notable dogs found on the islands by early visitors.

Did the indigenous people influence the name of the Canary Islands?
The indigenous Guanche people did not name the islands; the name was assigned by Roman explorers based on their observations.

When was the name “Canary Islands” first recorded?
The name was first recorded during the Roman period, around the 1st century BC, in texts describing the Atlantic archipelago.
The name “Canary Islands” originates from the Latin term “Insula Canaria,” which translates to “Island of the Dogs.” This designation was given by the ancient Romans, likely due to the presence of large dogs or possibly seals, which were mistaken for dogs, observed on the islands. Contrary to common misconception, the islands were not named after the small songbird known as the canary; rather, the bird was named after the islands.

The historical context reveals that early explorers and settlers were influenced by the fauna they encountered, which played a significant role in the naming process. The Roman influence is evident in the etymology, reflecting how natural features and animal life often contributed to place names in antiquity. Over time, the name persisted and became widely accepted, solidifying the islands’ identity in both historical and geographical records.

Understanding the origin of the Canary Islands’ name provides valuable insight into the intersection of natural history and human exploration. It highlights the importance of linguistic roots in uncovering the cultural and environmental narratives of a region. This knowledge enriches our appreciation of the islands beyond their modern-day reputation as a tourist destination, connecting us to their ancient past and the observations of early civilizations.

Author Profile

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Margaret Shultz
Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.

Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding