Fuerteventura is the second largest of the Canary Islands and is located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Africa.
The island has a population of just over 100,000 people and its capital is Puerto del Rosario. Fuerteventura is a popular tourist destination, with its sandy beaches, clear waters and year-round sunshine attracting visitors from all over Europe.
Here are ten fun facts about Fuerteventura:
1. The island was originally inhabited by the native Guanches people who were known for their unique cave paintings.
2. Fuerteventura is home to Europe’s oldest lighthouse, which was built in 1864.
3. The island has over 150 beaches, making it one of Spain’s most popular destinations for sun seekers.
4. Due to its location near Africa, Fuerteventura has a desert-like landscape with sand dunes and volcanic rocks. All volcanoes on Fuerteventura lay dormant.
5. Goats are the most common animal on the island – there are said to be more goats than people.
6. Windsurfing originated on Fuerteventura in the 1970s and today the island is considered one of the best places in the world to windsurf.
7. Josefina Plá, the poet, playwright, journalist, art critic, sculptor, ceramicist and historian described as “the most influential woman in Paraguayan cultural matters in the twentieth century”, was born in 1909 on the Isla Lobos, Fuerteventura.
8. In 2006, Fuerteventura was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO due to its important ecosystem and natural beauty.
9. There are many ancient sites to explore on Fuerteventura including caves used as burial chambers dating back 3,000 years ago.
10. Fuerteventura produces its own wine (Conatvs) which is made from grapes grown in volcanic soil – definitely worth trying during your visit.
