ANTIGUA 

The former settlement of Antigua is now one of Fuerteventura's oldest settlements. For centuries, the region was the most important agricultural centre of the island. At first, however, there were no people living there. They only came to cultivate the fields and harvest from the nearby capital Betancuria, where they had to live on the orders of their feudal lords after Jean de Béthancourt conquered them in 1405. 150 years later they finally moved to the place that was later to be called Antigua.

 

Some well-preserved houses of wealthy citizens and several manor houses still remind us of the former importance of Antigua. The turquoise-white Art Nouveau villa from around 1900 in the centre of the village is particularly striking.

 

Fuerteventura is a rough island with few resources and a dry climate, but the little that the island voluntarily gives is of excellent quality. The goat's cheeses from the municipality of Antigua regularly win prizes, olives and aloe vera have been cultivated for some time, also with growing success. 

 

The famous annual craft fair, Feria Insular de Artesanía, attracts many visitors from home and abroad. It offers handicraft products from Fuerteventura and other Canary Islands.  Months before, the whole town is already looking forward to the event that takes place in mid-May. The supporting programme includes traditional sporting competitions, folklore music and much more.