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23-10-2024, 07:32 AM
The oldest village in the Canary Islands was founded in 1404 by the Norman explorer Jean de Bethencourt
This 2024, the town of Betancuria, located in the heart of the island of Fuerteventura, celebrates its 620th anniversary, an occasion that invites us to reflect on its rich cultural heritage and its historical importance as the first capital of the Canary Islands. Founded in 1404 by the Norman explorer Jean de Bethencourt, Betancuria has witnessed centuries of transformations, from its birth at the time of the European conquest to its consolidation as an emblem of Canarian history.
An origin linked to the conquest
Betancuria was born in the context of European expeditions to the Canary Islands, led largely by Norman explorers. Jean de Bethencourt chose this enclave, located in an inland and sheltered area, as the strategic place for the foundation of the town that, for several centuries, would be the political and religious center of Fuerteventura. This location, protected by the mountains from winds and pirate attacks, was key to the initial development of the city.
The first major milestone in its history was the construction of the Church of Santa María, which was erected as the main religious headquarters of the island. Although it suffered a devastating attack by pirates in 1593, the church was rebuilt and remains today one of the most iconic architectural symbols of the municipality.
An architectural and cultural legacy
Walking through the streets of Betancuria is like traveling to the past. Its whitewashed houses, cobbled squares and the layout of its streets maintain the essence of a town that seems frozen in time. This heritage, which earned it the declaration as an Asset of Cultural Interest in 1979, has been fundamental in preserving the identity and character of a place that, although small in population, is vast in history.
Culture and traditions also play a crucial role in the life of Betancuria. Over the years, the municipality has hosted various popular demonstrations, many of them linked to religious celebrations. The festivity of San Buenaventura, the patron saint of the municipality, and Holy Week are Events of great relevance that bring together the local community and visitors in a show of devotion and cultural pride.
Tourism and contemporary challenges
Although Betancuria was the capital of Fuerteventura until 1834, today its importance does not lie in its administrative power, but in its value as a tourist and historical destination. Thousands of tourists visit the municipality annually to discover its heritage, which includes the Archaeological Museum, the Convent of San Buenaventura and the natural environment that surrounds it, such as the Betancuria Rural Park. This balance between past and present is what keeps the spirit of the town alive, which is still a testimony of the first European settlement in Fuerteventura.
However, the preservation of this legacy has not been without its challenges. Depopulation, poorly planned tourism development and pressure on natural resources are some of the challenges facing Betancuria in the 21st century. Despite this, the local community remains steadfast in its commitment to protect and promote its cultural and natural heritage.
620 years of history
The celebrations for the 620th anniversary of Betancuria include a series of Events that seek to value the history and traditions of the municipality. Exhibitions, conferences, religious Events and cultural activities have been organized to commemorate this special occasion. For the inhabitants of Betancuria, it is an opportunity to reaffirm their identity and remember the relevance that their town had and continues to have in the future of the Canary Islands.
In 2024, Betancuria continues to be a beacon of history and culture in Fuerteventura, reminding us that, although cities can change and adapt to modern times, their essence remains engraved in the stones of their streets, in the stories of their people and in the legacy of their foundation six centuries ago.
Betancuria is not only a witness to the past, but also a model of how heritage can be kept alive, while also facing the challenges of the present.
Link to article and photo
This 2024, the town of Betancuria, located in the heart of the island of Fuerteventura, celebrates its 620th anniversary, an occasion that invites us to reflect on its rich cultural heritage and its historical importance as the first capital of the Canary Islands. Founded in 1404 by the Norman explorer Jean de Bethencourt, Betancuria has witnessed centuries of transformations, from its birth at the time of the European conquest to its consolidation as an emblem of Canarian history.
An origin linked to the conquest
Betancuria was born in the context of European expeditions to the Canary Islands, led largely by Norman explorers. Jean de Bethencourt chose this enclave, located in an inland and sheltered area, as the strategic place for the foundation of the town that, for several centuries, would be the political and religious center of Fuerteventura. This location, protected by the mountains from winds and pirate attacks, was key to the initial development of the city.
The first major milestone in its history was the construction of the Church of Santa María, which was erected as the main religious headquarters of the island. Although it suffered a devastating attack by pirates in 1593, the church was rebuilt and remains today one of the most iconic architectural symbols of the municipality.
An architectural and cultural legacy
Walking through the streets of Betancuria is like traveling to the past. Its whitewashed houses, cobbled squares and the layout of its streets maintain the essence of a town that seems frozen in time. This heritage, which earned it the declaration as an Asset of Cultural Interest in 1979, has been fundamental in preserving the identity and character of a place that, although small in population, is vast in history.
Culture and traditions also play a crucial role in the life of Betancuria. Over the years, the municipality has hosted various popular demonstrations, many of them linked to religious celebrations. The festivity of San Buenaventura, the patron saint of the municipality, and Holy Week are Events of great relevance that bring together the local community and visitors in a show of devotion and cultural pride.
Tourism and contemporary challenges
Although Betancuria was the capital of Fuerteventura until 1834, today its importance does not lie in its administrative power, but in its value as a tourist and historical destination. Thousands of tourists visit the municipality annually to discover its heritage, which includes the Archaeological Museum, the Convent of San Buenaventura and the natural environment that surrounds it, such as the Betancuria Rural Park. This balance between past and present is what keeps the spirit of the town alive, which is still a testimony of the first European settlement in Fuerteventura.
However, the preservation of this legacy has not been without its challenges. Depopulation, poorly planned tourism development and pressure on natural resources are some of the challenges facing Betancuria in the 21st century. Despite this, the local community remains steadfast in its commitment to protect and promote its cultural and natural heritage.
620 years of history
The celebrations for the 620th anniversary of Betancuria include a series of Events that seek to value the history and traditions of the municipality. Exhibitions, conferences, religious Events and cultural activities have been organized to commemorate this special occasion. For the inhabitants of Betancuria, it is an opportunity to reaffirm their identity and remember the relevance that their town had and continues to have in the future of the Canary Islands.
In 2024, Betancuria continues to be a beacon of history and culture in Fuerteventura, reminding us that, although cities can change and adapt to modern times, their essence remains engraved in the stones of their streets, in the stories of their people and in the legacy of their foundation six centuries ago.
Betancuria is not only a witness to the past, but also a model of how heritage can be kept alive, while also facing the challenges of the present.
Link to article and photo