The conquest of Gran Canaria by the Kingdom of Castile marked a pivotal moment in the Spanish conquest of the Canary Islands. Initiated under the joint rule of King Ferdinand II and Queen Isabella I, this military expedition was part of their broader ambitions to control the islands and expand their influence in the Atlantic. The conquest was not merely a military endeavor; it symbolized Spain's growing maritime power during the Age of Exploration.

After earlier colonization efforts on other islands in the Canary archipelago, Gran Canaria became the focus of Castilian interests due to its strategic location and resources. The local Guanche population, noted for their unique culture and social structures, opposed the invasion fiercely. The initial military campaigns faced various challenges, including geographical difficulties and the resilience of the Guanche fighters. The Castilian forces, led by prominent noblemen, used their superior weaponry and organization to ultimately subjugate the island.

Following the conquest, Castilian administrators began implementing a new governance system, which included the introduction of Spanish law and customs. This transition profoundly impacted Gran Canaria’s social structure, economy, and cultural landscape. The integration of the island into Castile’s expanding empire set the stage for the eventual migration of Spanish settlers and the beginning of a colonial era characterized by significant demographic and cultural shifts across the region.