Convento de San Buenaventura, Betancuria

Nestled at the entrance of Betancuria, a quaint village in Fuerteventura, lies one of the island’s most significant historical landmarks — the Convent of San Buenaventura. This sacred site holds the distinction of being the first convent established in both Fuerteventura and the entire Canary Islands. Its ruins stand as a testament to the island’s rich religious, architectural, and cultural legacy, offering visitors a glimpse into a bygone era of devotion and spiritual endeavour.

Origins and Foundation

The Convent of San Buenaventura was founded in 1416 by the Franciscan Order, following authorization from Pope Benedict XIII. The pontiff’s decree, issued on April 1, 1416, under the papal bull “Pía fidelium,” marked the beginning of a new chapter in Fuerteventura’s religious landscape. The primary goal of the Franciscan friars was to evangelise the island’s inhabitants and provide a spiritual foundation for the emerging community.

The establishment of the convent was a monumental step for the Canary Islands, symbolizing the spread of Christianity to the archipelago’s more remote regions. The choice of Betancuria as the location was strategic, as it was the island’s capital at the time and a center of administrative, military, and religious activity.

Architectural Features

The architectural design of the Convent of San Buenaventura follows the classic Gothic style with a Latin-cross layout. Its structure included two entrance doors adorned with semi-circular stone arches, showcasing the sophisticated craftsmanship of the period. The building’s walls were constructed with locally sourced stone, adding to its rustic charm.

Inside the convent, two niche altarpieces were carefully carved from stone and later polychromed, adding vibrant colour to the religious space. These altarpieces were focal points of devotion, symbolising the sacred heart of the convent’s interior.

The architectural elements of the convent also reflected the influence of the prominent figures who funded its construction and expansion. Conquistador Diego Garcia de Herrera, Lord of Fuerteventura, played a significant role in its development, and saw to an extension of the convent in about 1455. Diego further chose it as his final resting place when he died in 1485. Another notable figure interred in the convent’s grounds was Claudio de Lila, a royal engineer who designed the fortresses of Tostón in El Cotillo and San Buenaventura in Caleta de Fuste.

Periods of Change and Destruction

The Convent of San Buenaventura’s history was not without hardship. In 1593, the Algerian corsair Xabán led an attack on Fuerteventura, inflicting significant damage on the convent and other parts of Betancuria. The attack left the convent partially destroyed, a blow from which it would never fully recover. It wasn’t until the seventeenth century that the convent was rebuilt in the shape of a Latin cross, and included a cloister and seating for 18 monks. Over the centuries, neglect and natural decay took their toll on the building, reducing it to the ruins seen today.

The collapse of the convent mirrored the shifting social and political landscape of Fuerteventura. As the island’s capital moved from Betancuria to La Oliva, Betancuria’s prominence waned, leaving many of its historical buildings to deteriorate. Despite these challenges, the ruins of the convent remain a poignant symbol of Fuerteventura’s past.

Significance and Legacy

Although the Convent of San Buenaventura is now in ruins, its cultural and historical significance endures. It serves as a reminder of the early Christian missions on the island and the role of the Franciscan Order in shaping the spiritual life of Fuerteventura’s inhabitants. Its architectural elements continue to inspire awe and reflection, and it remains a must-visit site for tourists exploring Betancuria’s historic core.

Visitors to the convent’s ruins today can walk among the remnants of its walls and arches, imagining the solemn chants of friars who once prayed within its sacred halls. The site’s unique ambiance is amplified by its picturesque surroundings, with the rugged landscape of Betancuria’s natural reserve providing a dramatic backdrop.

Today, sitting in the convent brings an overwhelming feeling of peace. The gentle rustle of leaves and the soft chirping of birds nesting in the walls and surrounding areas, create an atmosphere of serene calm. Around the outside of the ruins, pockets of greenery have taken root, with beautiful plants bringing colour to the area. This natural rebirth adds a sense of quiet renewal to the space, as if nature itself is reclaiming and nurturing the spiritual legacy of the past. For visitors, it is a place of reflection, where the past and present coexist in harmonious stillness.

The Convent of San Buenaventura also highlights the broader story of colonization, religious conversion, and cultural transformation in the Canary Islands. Its place in the historical narrative of Fuerteventura makes it a key stop for those interested in the island’s heritage.

The Ermita de San Diego

Standing just in front of the convent, and accessible through an archway, is the Ermita de San Diego. For those who visit Betancuria, the hermitage offers a peaceful space for reflection and a tangible connection to the island’s enduring religious heritage. Paired with the ruins of the convent, it provides a comprehensive view of Fuerteventura’s spiritual past and the Franciscan Order’s lasting influence on the Canary Islands.

How to get there

The Convent of San Buenaventura is accessible by car via the FV-30 road. Follow the signs to Betancuria. When coming from the south the convent is after the town of Betancuria and situated on the right. When coming from the north it is before the town and situated on the left. There is a good-sized car park. At the further end of the car park you will find a bridge crossing over the Barranco del Covento giving easy access to the convent.

Conclusion

The Convent of San Buenaventura is more than a collection of ancient stone ruins; it is a monument to Fuerteventura’s spiritual journey and a symbol of the enduring influence of the Franciscan Order. Its story reflects both the triumphs and tribulations of Fuerteventura’s past, from the evangelization of its people to the destructive raids of foreign invaders. For modern visitors, the convent offers a powerful reminder of the island’s rich history and the enduring beauty found in even the most weathered remains. Walking among its ruins is a journey back in time, a reflection on devotion, and a tribute to the perseverance of faith in the face of adversity.