[4] Located in a vast mountainous area in the centre of Gran Canaria, Risco Caído comprises cliffs, ravines and volcanic formations in a landscape of rich biodiversity.

The landscape includes a large number of troglodyte (cave-dwelling) habitats, granaries and cisterns whose age is proof of the presence of a pre-Hispanic culture on the island, which evolved in isolation from the arrival of North African Berbers, around the beginning of our era, until the first Spanish settlers in the 15th century.

The troglodyte complex also includes cult cavities and two sacred temples or almogarenes, Risco Caído and Roque Bentayga, where seasonal ceremonies were held.

[5] The inclusion of Risco Caído in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites has been criticized by scholars such as the mathematician José Barrios, who considers that there is little scientific reason to consider it an aboriginal astronomical observatory or to support the institutional overprotection of this enclave over others in Gran Canaria, such as the archaeological site of Four Doors.

[6] Both criticise the fact that a single article (which they consider to have "little scientific basis"), written by the discoverer of the site, Julio Cuenca, has sufficed for world heritage status.