Gran Canaria's Unexplained Traditions: Tourist's Questions Go Viral, Locals Reveal Surprising Answers

LAS PALMAS DE GRAN CANARIA – A recent video posted by tourist Piniyya has ignited a lively discussion among residents of Gran Canaria, as he sought explanations for two distinct local phenomena: the metal bands observed on palm trees and the traditional use of palm leaves by street sweepers. Piniyya, who documented his experiences trying local food like gofio and the popular Clipper soda, and visiting well-known coves, turned to social media to satisfy his curiosity. "What is that on the palm trees and what is it for?" he asked, pointing to the metal rings encircling the trunks. He also questioned, "Why do street sweepers use a palm leaf?" The video quickly garnered hundreds of comments, with many "Canarios" eager to provide insights. Several users explained the purpose of the metal bands: "The ring... is so that rats cannot nest in the crown of the palm trees," one commenter clarified. Another added, "It's for rats not to climb the palm trees." Regarding the palm leaves, the responses highlighted a practical and traditional approach to street cleaning. "The street sweepers sweep with the palm leaf because, being long, it sweeps a larger area than if they did it with a brush," a user explained. Another comment echoed this sentiment, stating, "The palm leaf is used to sweep streets (for outsiders, yes, we have brooms, but nothing like the palm tree)." The replies underscore both practical utility and a sense of local tradition in these practices.

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