The municipality of Betancuria, the first capital of the Canary Islands, will enhance its hydraulic heritage with a €100,000 grant from the «Historic Capital Villa of the Canary Islands 2026» initiative. The Tourism Department of the Canary Islands Government has awarded these funds for the restoration and preservation of traditional water wheels, emblematic elements of Fuerteventura's agricultural history.
These structures, essential for centuries for water extraction in an arid environment, are part of the municipality's collective memory. The project includes maintenance work to ensure their physical preservation and integration into the rural landscape.
As part of the initiative, sculptures of camels and donkeys will be installed, animals that played a key role in agricultural tasks and the operation of the water wheels, paying homage to their historical and economic importance on the island.
Technological innovation will be central with the creation of an Augmented Reality experience. This tool will allow tourists and residents to virtually explore how the water wheels functioned and the process of water extraction in past Fuerteventura, merging history with present-day technology.
“"This is further proof that inter-administrative collaborations are the way forward for town councils with limited resources, such as Betancuria. Therefore, this council expresses its gratitude for this collaboration and the personal involvement of the Canary Islands Government's Minister of Tourism."
The Mayor of Betancuria highlighted the importance of inter-administrative alliances for municipalities with limited resources like his own, expressing gratitude for the support received. This project reinforces the council's commitment to protecting and promoting its rich historical, architectural, and ethnographic heritage.
