A must on your visit to Fuerteventura is Betancuria, the former capital of the island. Its most outstanding features are its picturesque architecture, cobbled streets and the quietness that makes you forget everything and enjoy the moment. If you’re not sure what to do in Betancuria, here are some of the best activities to plan during your visit. Discover its rich history, stroll through its charming streets and breathe in the beauty of this unique place.
History of Betancuria
The history of Betancuria begins around 1404, when it was founded by the Norman conqueror Jean de Bethencourt during the conquest of the island. Betancuria, named after Bethencourt, was one of the first European cities in the Canary Islands and was built in an inland valley for military and strategic reasons, taking advantage of its fertility and natural resources. Despite its strategic location, in 1593 it suffered a devastating attack by Berber hordes led by Arraez Xabán. They destroyed a large part of the town, including the church of Betancuria (Iglesia de Santa María).
Following the conquest, Betancuria became the administrative centre of Fuerteventura, receiving European settlers and some of the indigenous population. An economy based on agriculture, livestock and trade was established. The church of Santa María, built around 1410, and the Franciscan convent of San Buenaventura, founded in 1416, were important religious centres. The papal bull of Pope Martin V in 1424 created the diocese of Fuerteventura, which included all the Canary Islands except Lanzarote.
Betancuria was indeed an important religious and administrative centre in the 16th and 17th centuries, but began to decline in the 18th with the expansion of other centres and military and ecclesiastical decentralisation. Nevertheless, Betancuria maintained its status as capital and seat of the island’s Cabildo until the mid-19th century. Its rich historical and artistic heritage led to it being declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1978, making it an essential place for understanding the island’s cultural history.
Betancuria: How to get there
You can’t miss Betancuria. There are several ways to get there while enjoying the scenery and magnificent views along the way. Betancuria is located in the centre of the island and one of the best ways to reach it is to drive or hire a car and enjoy the wonderful drive along the FV30 road, admiring the Betancuria rural park. Alternatively, public transport is a good option. You can take the bus or guagua, the Canarian term for bus, Tiadhe line 2 from Puerto del Rosario. An accessible and rewarding destination, Betancuria awaits you to admire its simple beauty.
What to see in Betancuria
Betancuria is a place full of historical and cultural treasures. You can enjoy a unique blend of architecture, history and stunning natural views and explore the island’s rich heritage through its museums, monuments and viewpoints.
Betancuria has a rich history dating back to its 15th century founding. This historical past is reflected in every street and building, offering you a magical journey through time. From its time as the island’s capital to the pirate attacks that shaped its character, Betancuria invites you to discover its heritage through its monuments and museums. Join us on this tour of the most beautiful and emblematic places in Betancuria that you can’t miss.
Church of Santa María de Betancuria
Also known as Nuestra Señora de la Concepción Parish Church, this is an important historical and architectural monument in Fuerteventura. Founded in 1410 by Jean de Bethencourt, the church of Betancuria has a rich and turbulent past, marked by its destruction during the attack of the corsair Xabán Arraez in 1593 and its subsequent reconstruction. It is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of the resistance and spirit of the community of Betancuria.
Its architecture is a fusion of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Mudejar styles, with an imposing white stone façade and a 17th-century Baroque altarpiece inside. The church houses various works of art of great historical importance, including images of the Virgen de la Concepción and other Franciscan figures.
Betancuria Museum House
If you are interested in the history of the island and especially in the life of the Mahos (ancient inhabitants of Fuerteventura), the Betancuria Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum is a must. Located in the ancient capital of Betancuria, in the heart of Fuerteventura, this small museum offers a fascinating window into the past.
Through its explanatory panels, full of photographs and engravings, the museum reveals crucial aspects about the climate, the first conquests, the way of life and the geographical location of the Mahos, as well as their internal conflicts. With an impressive collection of tools and utensils, the museum illustrates the harsh living conditions on the island in ancient times.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, so make the most of this fascinating opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of Fuerteventura!
Guise and Ayose viewpoint
The panoramic view of the old capital of Fuerteventura and its surroundings from this viewpoint in Betancuria will leave you speechless. From here you can see the typical lime and stone constructions that are characteristic of the traditional Canary architecture and that give Betancuria its unique charm.
This belvedere is much more than a picturesque viewpoint. It has two bronze statues, each 4 metres high, which represent the last kings of the Canary Islands: Ayoze, the King of Jandía, and Guise, the King of Maxorata. These were the last two kings of Fuerteventura before the island was conquered by the Europeans in the 15th century. Their valiant struggle and legacy live on in the island, and the viewpoint that bears their names is a tribute to their bravery.
The natural surroundings of the Mirador de Guise y Ayose are equally impressive. The island of Fuerteventura has a volcanic landscape, with vast fields of petrified lava and rugged mountains. From this viewpoint you can admire the majesty of the island’s geology and understand why Fuerteventura is a paradise for nature lovers – not to be missed!
What to do in Betancuria
Aside from the incredible places that you will be able to discover in this village, there are plenty of other things to do in Betancuria. One is tasting the excellent cuisine in the various restaurants, where goat meat is a local delicacy.
After strolling through the streets and exploring the outskirts, we recommend a visit to the viewpoint at Las Peñitas. It offers magnificent views of the Las Peñitas ravine, 338 metres above sea level.
As well as getting to know Betancuria and its surroundings, we recommend a visit to the nearby beaches. Not to be missed is Ajuy, an area with a beautiful black sand beach. We suggest you visit it at sunset if you want to experience a unique moment.
It also has several restaurants where you can spend the afternoon enjoying the sun and the waves. Another beach to visit near Betancuria is Aguas Verdes. This beach is ideal for a swim at low tide and is also one of the most visited beaches to enjoy the sunset. There are many things to do in and around Betancuria and you will fall in love with this place.
Architecture of Betancuria
An island rich in history and cultural heritage, Fuerteventura has a wide variety of architectural styles that reflect a fusion of age-old influences. From traditional Canarian architecture to Spanish colonial architecture, the island has a wide range of architectural styles.
There is a mixture of European and African influences in the traditional architecture of the Canary Islands. Typical Canarian houses are built of white sandstone, with gabled roofs of Arabic tiles, and feature courtyards and balconies decorated with colourful potted flowers.
On the other hand, Spanish colonial architecture, which prevailed between the 15th and 19th centuries, is evident in the buildings constructed during this period. These buildings, made of stone and brick, incorporate European architectural elements such as arcades and columns.
Betancuria, Fuerteventura’s first capital, is an example of how these architectural styles are intertwined on the island. The town has a diverse collection of buildings from different periods of Fuerteventura’s history, creating a fascinating architectural tapestry.
Fuerteventura’s Betancuria, an exciting place to visit
If you are looking for relaxation and picturesque landscapes, Betancuria is a must. The natural beauty of Fuerteventura, the history reflected in its architecture and the opportunity to immerse yourself in Canarian culture await you there.
At Lopesan Group we want you to have the best experience possible. This is why we offer you the fantastic hotels on the island of Fuerteventura. Get away from it all and enjoy the best holiday of your life. Book your accommodation now and enjoy the wonders the island has to offer.
