The Titan Crane

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria · Category: Architecture · Subcategory: Industrial architecture · Year: 1935-75

The Titan crane, capable of lifting 90 tonnes, is a symbol of the development of the Port of La Luz. It began operating in 1935 to build the Arsenal dock. It was used for the expansion of the Muelle Grande and completed its task in 1975 with the first phase of the Reina Sofía breakwater. It is the fourth of its kind in the Port. The three previous ones were used, one in the construction of the Muelle Grande (1883-1902) and two in the León y Castillo and General Primo de Rivera docks (1928-1934).

Its new location is a tribute to those who have contributed to the greatness of this Port and in particular to the Civil Engineers and Technical Public Works Engineers who have participated in the major projects and works of the Port of La Luz and Las Palmas [Commemorative plaque].

[...] a piece of great cultural and industrial value is the Titan Crane, which is also exhibited very close to Santa Catalina Park, facing the docks and inner waters of the Naval Base of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The Titan Crane was the rolling platform that allowed moving, stacking one by one, and placing in its place the blocks that since 1885 have been reclaiming land from the sea for the new port and, subsequently, expanding its berthing lines.

The crane, weighing 195 tonnes in total, was a successful design of its time by the London firm Jessops & Appleby Brothers that helped build the León y Castillo Dock between 1885 and 1903.

The Titan Crane remained for years forgotten in a corner at the start of the container terminal, without a clear idea of where it should be placed. Today it shines with its striking blue colour stranded in front of the recreated port canopy.

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