Iglesia Catedral de Santa Maria de Betancuria

Founded in the early 15th century, the Parish of Santa María de Betancuria was originally established to serve as a modest chapel for worship on the island of Fuerteventura. However, in 1410, the Norman expeditionary Jean de Béthencourt commissioned the construction of a more impressive church, adhering to French Gothic architectural standards, thus replacing the initial small oratory.

One of the primary aims of this church was to house the revered image of the Virgin, brought to the island by the conquistadors, as well as to aid in the Christianisation of the island’s indigenous inhabitants. Its significance was recognised when Pope Martin V proclaimed it the first cathedral in the Canary Islands in 1424.

In 1593, the church was destroyed by pirates led by Xabán Arráez, who razed and set fire to the building. It was subsequently reconstructed under the direction of Pedro de Párraga. The reconstruction process was lengthy, taking more than a century to complete.

The extended construction period has resulted in the Parish of Santa María de Betancuria showcasing a rich blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Mudejar influences, making it a remarkable historical and cultural monument on the island.