Town of La Ampuyenta
La Ampuyenta: History and Tradition in the Heart of Fuerteventura
La Ampuyenta is a charming rural village located in the municipality of Puerto del Rosario, halfway between the capital and the town of Antigua. Known for its historical, cultural and religious richness, this town offers visitors a tour through the legacy of some of the most illustrious figures of the island, framed in a quiet and picturesque environment.
History and Heritage
La Ampuyenta has witnessed the passage of time and the evolution of Fuerteventura, preserving an important architectural and cultural heritage. It stands out for being the birthplace of famous people such as Fray Andresito, a Franciscan friar revered in Chile for his social work, and Doctor Mena, recognized for his dedication to medicine and philanthropy. The town has an important patrimonial complex, where you can find:
- Ermita de San Pedro de Alcántara, a 17th century church with an impressive wooden coffered ceiling and valuable Baroque-style wall paintings.
- Casa de Fray Andresito, the humble house where this Franciscan friar was born, converted into a sanctuary dedicated to his memory.
- Casa del Doctor Mena, a traditional Majorero building that houses personal objects and documents about the life and work of the doctor.
- Hospitalito de La Ampuyenta, a building from the early twentieth century that never functioned as a hospital, but today is part of the cultural complex of the village.
Natural Environment
Surrounded by arid landscapes and jable plains, La Ampuyenta offers ideal hiking trails to explore its natural environment. Visitors can walk along the Barranco de La Ampuyenta ravine, a dry riverbed that meanders through farmland and small hills, offering panoramic views of the majorero landscape.
Festivals and Traditions
The festivities in honor of San Pedro de Alcántara, patron saint of the town, are celebrated in October with a traditional pilgrimage and popular events. In addition, every January religious events are held in honor of Fray Andresito, attracting pilgrims and devotees from all over the island.
How to get there
La Ampuyenta is located about 15 kilometers from Puerto del Rosario, accessible by road FV-20. Its strategic location makes it an ideal destination for those who want to explore the interior of Fuerteventura and discover its history. Visiting La Ampuyenta is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the majorera culture, enjoy its traditional architecture and learn about the history of characters who left an indelible mark on the island.
