Betancuria

The old capital of the island, founded in 1405 by the conqueror Jean de Bethencourt. The church of Santa Maria was completed in 1426 though in 1593, it along with much of the town was reduced to rubble as the pirate Jaban attacked. The church was rebuilt in 1691 and the town remained the capital until 1834.

Once a fertile region, the drying up of the land and natural streams that ran through this valley means today's Betancuria survives almost entirely from the tourist trade. The restaurant Casa santa Maria and the two adjacent craft shops are perfect examples of the traditional architecture in the town's historic quarter. Also in this quarter, as well as the cathedral itself are a bodega and workshops where you can watch local artists at work. (Restaurant open daily 11:00 - 18:00 - craft and shops open daily 11:00 - 16:00).

The cathedral has now become a museum with a display of photographs documenting all the sacred buildings on Fuerteventura along with religious objects and attractions located on the island.

Also on display are archeological finds. Also on the "to visit" list here are the ruins of the local monastery which was abandoned in 1937 upon orders of Queen Isabella II of Spain. The roof of the monastery was sold for food, grain and water because of droughts. The monastery's church of San Buenaventura still stands and though empty (and locked) inside, the outside has been restored.