|
Betancuria
This village of Betancuria is by far the most picturesque of the island and was the original capital of Fuerteventura. Founded in 1404 by Jean de Bethencourt (hence the name) it is almost hidden away in the folds of the mountains. The village remained the capital until 1834 and now enjoys a special preservation status as a Conjunto Histórica Artístico and is somewhat like a folk park.
In the centre of the village is the 17th century Iglesia de Santa Maria which took almost a century to build after the previous church was destroyed by the Berber Pirate, Xaban de Arraez. Interestingly the original church on this site had the status of a Cathedral and was assigned a Bishop – who never arrived, testimony perhaps to the remoteness of the place.
On the northern outskirts of the village is the roof-less ruin of a 15th century Franciscan Monastery, the Monasterio de San Buenaventura.
As well as offering several small museums, Betancuria is one of the few places where you can enjoy traditional food from the island, such as at the Restaurante de Casa de Santa Maria (not to be confused with the small Café of the same name).
Map of Betancuria
 Add to del.icio.us
|
|
|
Home :: Contact :: FAQ :: Island Forum :: Photo Gallery :: Link to us
