Casa de los Coroneles is a restored historic mansion on the outskirts of La Oliva, Fuerteventura. Built in the second half of the 17th century and extended in the 18th, it was home to the island’s military governors. Look for the central courtyard, wooden galleries, carved doors and decorative balconies. Inside, temporary art exhibitions share space with displays about the house’s history; outside, the remains of former outbuildings and the resident squirrels add interest to a visit.
A residence of military governors
Casa de los Coroneles was built in the second half of the 17th century by the Cabrera Bethencourt family. Major extensions and renovations followed in the 18th century, as the house became the residence of Fuerteventura’s colonels, who moved from Betancuria to La Oliva. The colonels held military authority as well as civil, political and legal power on the island.
Their influence extended beyond the house. Land purchases and estates helped establish them as powerful figures in the area. The last colonel, Cristóbal Manrique de Lara, was removed from office in 1857. The building’s scale and decorative details give a sense of the authority its residents once held.
Courtyard, galleries and carved wood
The restored house is arranged around a traditional central patio, with wooden galleries looking onto the courtyard. Notice the decorative balconies and carved doorwork as you move through the rooms. The interior stays cool, and restored woodwork is among the building’s most distinctive details.
The house is largely without period furniture, so its architecture carries much of the story. A simple chapel with its original tiled floor is also part of the interior. Outside, the remains of the outbuildings give a glimpse of the wider property.
Exhibitions and the visit
Temporary exhibitions of modern art are held on the ground floor, while displays upstairs cover the history of the building. The exhibition programme can change, so check what is on when planning your visit. Information is not always available in English; a guide can help if you want fuller historical context.
Casa de los Coroneles reopened after a major restoration project in 2006. The house also hosts La Oliva’s traditional handicrafts market on Tuesdays from 10am to 2pm. Squirrels live among the rocks around the site. If you bring food for them, follow any guidance given there.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Casa de los Coroneles?
It is on the outskirts of La Oliva, on Fuerteventura, at C. los Coroneles, 28.
When was Casa de los Coroneles built?
Construction began in the second half of the 17th century. Major extensions and renovations took place in the 18th century.
What can you see inside Casa de los Coroneles?
The house has a central courtyard, wooden galleries, a chapel with its original tiled floor, temporary art exhibitions and displays about the building’s history.
Is Casa de los Coroneles open on Mondays?
No. The site is closed on Mondays.
