Fuerteventura's former capital Betancuria lies in a picturesque valley next to a dried up stream which flowed up until the 16th century.
Founded in 1405 by the Norman conqueror Jean de Bethencourt (hence the name Betancuria), it was rather protected from pirate attacks, although in 1593 the pirate Jaban penetrated Betancuria and reduced everything including the Santa Maria church (originally built in 1410) to a pile of rubble and ash.The church was not rebuilt until 1691.
Betancuria was capital until the local people started moving away from the town due to lack of arable land. In 1834 Betancuria bowed down and handed the honor over to La Oliva (who then handed over to 'Puerto de Cabras' known today as Puerto del Rosario).
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 On
the main street running through the town is the Casa Museo Arqueologico-etnografico (Arqueologic and Ethnographic Museum) : the building contains a collection of important and fascinating archeological finds. Highlights here include Guanche fertility idols, an idol frieze that was discovered near La Oliva, and also numerous farming implements.
The Centro Insular de Artesania, next to the museum, documents traditional arts and crafts. Also Try a visit to the 'Casa Santa Maria' where you can watch the local artists at work and purchase some of the hand made products from the quaint local shop.
The church of santa Maria de Betancuria has now been fully restored, it boasts beautiful works in Mudejar-style and painted choir-stalls of the wood of the Canarian pine and there's also a church Museum (Museo de Arte Sacro).
Other interesting places in the commune of Betancuria:
- Ermita de San Diego de Alcala (Betancuria)
- Mirador de Morro Velosa
- Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña (Vega de Rio Palmas)
- Ermita de Santa Inés (valle de santa Inés)
- Parque Rural de Betancuria
More information:
www.fuerteventuraturismo.com
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