Betancuria a picturesque town on the island of Fuerteventura

Betancuria is a picturesque town located in the western part of the island of Fuerteventura.

This city of Fuerteventura has just over 200 inhabitants, but is considered one of the oldest towns founded by Europeans in the Canary Islands.

It was founded in 1404 by the conqueror of the island of Fuerteventura Jean de Bethencourt , from whom  it takes its name.

The main activities of the city of Betancuria are agriculture, livestock farming and tourism.

If on your trip to Fuerteventura you want to visit the small but extraordinary town of Betancuria , you will not be disappointed, the place is enchanting.

To visit Betancuria what will make you waste time is the road to get there, tortuous but with a breathtaking view, impossible not to stop to take wonderful photos.

If you have decided to spend half a day visiting the hinterland of Fuerteventura, you can also take advantage of the opportunity to see:

• Natural pools of Aguas Verdes (you are lucky if you find low tide)
• Ajuy Beach and the most beautiful caves of Fuerteventura
• Majorero Cheese Museum
• Antigua

 

Historical center of Betancuria

The town of Betancuria , the old capital of the island of Fuerteventura , was recognized as a historic site in 1979.

A walk through the centre allows you to get an idea of ​​the roots and ancient history of Fuerteventura.

The historical center of Betancuria is very small, but it is worth visiting and being enchanted.

Betancuria was founded by the knight Jean de Bethencourt, who chose an inland valley, far from the sea for better defense against pirates.

In addition to its beaches, landscapes and gastronomy, Fuerteventura has much more to discover. 

The largest island of the archipelago hides in its geography fascinating places such as picturesque villages rich in history, which will leave you breathless.

Or small fishing enclaves where you can enjoy local dishes or lively streets where you can take a quiet stroll. 

The historical center of Betancuria represents the centuries-old tradition of the Majoreros, told through the squares, the alleys and the local gastronomy.

 

What to see in Betancuria

The old capital of Fuerteventura proudly preserves a long history, culture and tradition.

Betancuria tells all this, through the best attractions it offers to tourists.

 

Church of Santa Maria

The Church of Santa Maria was dedicated to the Cathedral of the Diocese of the Canaries by Pope Martin V.

All that remains of the original construction is the first level of the bell tower and the bases of the  columns.

The new building presents a Gothic, Renaissance style and inevitable Baroque traits.

 

Plaza Conception

Plaza Conception is the most photographed and sought after place in the city of Betancuria .

A real postcard, the beautiful church of Conception with its white exterior and plaster, the palm trees and the little houses of the village surrounding the little square.

And to make everything even more spectacular, there is the hunt for the most beautiful views and the music of the street artists, present in this enchanting place on the island.

 

Museum of Sacred Art

The Museum of Sacred Art is located in the former rectory of the church of Santa Maria.

A small museum of 4 rooms, which offers a fine collection of works from different parishes of Fuerteventura, including paintings and religious sculptures.

 

Museo Artesania (the museum of craftsmanship)

The Museo Artesania is located in the lush gardens of the church of Santa Maria.

Displays agricultural tools, the work of local artisans such as weaving, embroidery, wickerwork, ceramics, available for purchase in the museum shop.

 

The monument to the Itinerant Potter Majorera

Traveling potters are the women majoreras who brought their equipment from one village to the other, made to order, with the possibility of also finding ceramic pieces.

 

The Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum

The Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum is dedicated to the Guanche tribe, who were the first indigenous population of Fuerteventura.

The museum still lives in the Stone Age, including bone and shell tools  , pieces of pottery, stone religious idols.

 

The Rural Park of Betancuria

The Betancuria Rural Park is a natural area that protects the coastal range of the entire town.

It was declared a protected area in 1984, then reclassified as rural in 1994, and is one of the most spectacular outcrops in Fuerteventura.

The park is characterized by a mosaic of meadows with notable plant species mixed with  non-native species.

In this park you can take beautiful nature walks and trekking , with a path of almost 3 km, up to the Belvedere di Morro Velosa.

 

Green Waters of Betancuria

Aguas Verdes de Betancuria, are the most renowned and fascinating  natural pools on the island.

It is one of the most uncontaminated places on the island, a true paradise.

This phenomenon is an effect due to the erosion of the rocks, and the continuous breaking of the waves on the coast, creating real natural pools with emerald green and crystalline water.

We are talking about 6 km dotted with pools and inlets open to the sea that are worth a visit for relaxation and isolation away from human footprints.

In this small town there are a few hotels, B&Bs, holiday homes and only in the vicinity excellent typical Canarian restaurants.

In Betancuria there is a small place, a mix between a restaurant, a bar and a minimarket, a  perfect place for a Canarian-style meal.

Excellent sandwiches with fried cheese and honey, homemade desserts such as the typical Canarian dessert,  called maripepa.

 

How to get to Betancuria

Getting to Betancuria is possible in three ways: by bus , taxi or with a rental car at Fuerteventura.

This town in Fuerteventura is located 28 km from Puerto del Rosario, a distance that can be covered in approximately 36 minutes.

The road to reach this location is very comfortable, following the FV – 20 and FV – 30 towards Betancuria.

Once you reach your destination, you can leave your car in the parking lot located a few steps from the center.