Betancuria

Betancuria, a tranquil town on the western side of Fuerteventura, offers a journey into the island's past. As the former capital of Fuerteventura and, for a time, the entire Canary Islands, its pathways and traditional architecture tell stories of centuries gone by. The town is situated within the Betancuria Massif, a landscape of soft mountains and endless valleys that provides a striking contrast to the island's more arid regions.

Designated a historic site in 1979, Betancuria is a place for quiet exploration, away from the bustling coastal resorts. Its appeal lies in its preserved character, with whitewashed houses, wooden doors, and a palpable sense of history at every turn. With a population of just over 800 inhabitants, it holds the distinction of being the smallest municipality in Fuerteventura and across the Canary Islands.

## The Founding and Early Importance Betancuria was founded in 1404 by Jean de Béthencourt and Gadifer de La Salle, Norman conquerors. The town was strategically established in an inland valley, offering a natural defense against pirate attacks that plagued coastal settlements during the 15th century. This deliberate choice made Betancuria the first capital of the Kingdom of the Canary Islands, and later, the capital of Fuerteventura, a role it maintained for centuries.

## A Brief Ecclesiastical Center In 1424, Pope Martin V established the Bishopric of Fuerteventura, a significant religious jurisdiction that encompassed all the Canary Islands except Lanzarote. The Parish of Santa María de Betancuria served as its main church, elevating the town's religious importance. However, this bishopric was short-lived, abolished just seven years later in 1431.

## Resilience Through Adversity Despite its strategic location, Betancuria was not immune to attacks. In 1593, pirates raided and destroyed much of the town. Yet, Betancuria demonstrated remarkable resilience, being rebuilt and retaining its status as the capital of Fuerteventura until 1834, when Antigua took over this role. Today, its historical significance is recognized by its inclusion in the association of the most beautiful villages in Spain.

Begin your exploration with a stroll through Betancuria's historic center, a place of pathways and whitewashed houses with wooden doors. The Iglesia de Santa María de Betancuria is a central landmark, a 15th-century church rebuilt in the 17th century with Gothic, Mudejar, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. The plaza in front of the church offers benches under palm trees, ideal for a moment of quiet observation.

Nearby, you'll find the remnants of the Convento de San Buenaventura, the first Franciscan convent in the Canary Islands, offering a mystical and peaceful atmosphere. The Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum of Fuerteventura is also worth a visit, housed in a traditional Canarian house. It showcases archaeological pieces, ethnographic objects, and exhibits on the lives of the island's aboriginal inhabitants and early European expeditions.

For sweeping views of Betancuria's dramatic volcanic landscape, head to the Mirador de Morro Velosa (also known as Mirador de Betancuria or Mirador de Guise y Ayose). This viewpoint provides expansive vistas of soft mountains and endless valleys. If you enjoy walking, Betancuria is surrounded by hiking routes that traverse ravines, natural viewpoints, and ancient goat trails. The Barranco de las Peñitas offers a unique landscape of reddish cliffs, and the Camino de las Ermitas connects several religious buildings.

The best times to visit Betancuria are during spring and autumn (April-May and October-November). During these months, the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring the town and its surrounding hiking trails. Early mornings or late afternoons are also recommended to avoid midday heat and tour bus crowds, allowing for a more serene experience and better photography light.

Betancuria is best accessed by car, offering a scenic drive through Fuerteventura's interior, particularly via the FV-30 road. Be mindful that some mountain routes can be winding, so drive calmly and enjoy the views. Parking is available within or near the historic center, though it can get busy during peak times; arriving early is advisable.

Allow a few hours (2-3 hours) to comfortably explore the main sights, including the church, museum, and streets. For those interested in more in-depth visits or hiking, half a day or more is recommended. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the pathways can be uneven. While English is understood in tourist areas, a few Spanish phrases are always appreciated. The local currency is the Euro, and most establishments accept major credit cards, though carrying some cash for smaller shops is a good idea.