When going to Betancuria, we’re usually very excited about this beautiful old city, and rightfully so. But there’s more there than just the lovely city center. One of my favorites is the remains of the Convent of San Buenaventura, which was not only the first convent in Fuerteventura but also in the Canary Islands.
When arriving in Betancuria from the north, you’ll find it just before the center, down to the left of the main road. There’s also parking there.
It belonged to the Franciscan Order and was founded in 1416. The Franciscans who lived there, according to sources, besides preaching and praying, dedicated themselves to helping the sick and teaching the kids to read and write. There’re a couple of tombs there, among others of Claudio de Lila, who built the fortresses of Tostón and Caleta de Fuste.
The 15th-century convent is now in ruins; almost everything was destroyed in the 1593 island attack by the pirate Arráez Xaban. In the 17th century, the conventual church was rebuilt and expanded, and its walls are still preserved, while only remains of the foundations remained from the first convent. Very worth a quick stop!
