The statue of the Virgin of the Peña is believed to have been brought to the island by Jean de Béthencourt in the early 15th century.
The annual 'Romería de la Peña' brings thousands of pilgrims from across Fuerteventura to this specific site every September.
The original image of the Virgin is a small, Gothic-style alabaster carving of French origin.
The site is located in the Barranco de Mal Nombre, a valley historically significant for the island's early settlement patterns.
The hermitage is specifically managed to preserve its role as the center of the island's diocesan religious identity.
The Ermita de Nuestra Señora de la Peña is a historic religious site located in the Rincón de la Vega, near the town of Betancuria on Fuerteventura. It serves as the sanctuary for the patron saint of Fuerteventura, the Virgin of the Peña. The current structure replaced earlier devotional sites and is central to the island's most significant annual religious pilgrimage. The site is noted for its simple, traditional Canarian architectural style rather than elaborate ornamentation. It sits within a rugged, arid valley landscape characteristic of the island's interior volcanic terrain. The site remains a focal point for local devotional practices and cultural heritage reflection.
The view from the approach road looking down into the valley toward the hermitage provides the best perspective of the building within its natural landscape.
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the surrounding terrain is uneven and rocky.
Bring sun protection and water, as there is limited shade or infrastructure immediately surrounding the sanctuary.
Check the local ecclesiastical calendar if visiting in September to avoid potential overcrowding during the major pilgrimage.
Do not attempt to access the site during major pilgrimage days unless intending to participate, as the area becomes extremely crowded and inaccessible by vehicle.
The interior may be closed to visitors during private religious services or specific non-peak seasonal periods.
Maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor; cover shoulders and knees when entering the interior space.
