In La Ampuyenta on Fuerteventura, this small 17th-century hermitage is known for its painted interior. The walls carry scenes from the life of San Pedro de Alcántara, alongside the work El Tránsito, which depicts the passage from life to death. Look closely for the painted altar details and trompe-l'œil effects that imitate three-dimensional forms. The chapel is usually locked outside Mass, so arrange access through a guided visit before making the trip.
Painted walls and altar
The hermitage is small, but its walls are covered with paintings. One cycle tells the life of San Pedro de Alcántara, a Franciscan friar known as a reformer of his order and a preacher. He was canonized in 1669, and his feast day falls on October 19 in the Roman Catholic Church.
The altar is richly decorated with images. The paintings and altar work were made by local artists, whose names have not been recorded. Among the unusual scenes are a graphic depiction of hell and a saint shown wearing a thorn-covered chainmail garment. Painted architectural details use trompe-l'œil to suggest three-dimensional forms.
El Tránsito and access to the chapel
Look for El Tránsito, a work about the passage from life to death. It is listed as Canarian cultural heritage. The hermitage’s murals are considered among the significant examples of this kind of painting in the Canary Islands.
The chapel is usually kept locked except during Mass. Access is possible through a guided visit associated with the House of Doctor Mena; ask for the hermitage to be included. Some visits also take in the small hospital and nearby houses. The tour may involve an extended stop and may be conducted in Spanish, so check the arrangements before setting out.
FAQ
Is there an entrance fee?
Available visit information says entry is free.
Can you go inside the hermitage?
The chapel is usually locked outside Mass. Ask about access through a guided visit associated with the House of Doctor Mena.
What should you see inside?
Look for the paintings of San Pedro de Alcántara’s life, the work El Tránsito, the decorated altar and the trompe-l'œil details.
When is San Pedro de Alcántara’s feast day?
It falls on October 19 in the Roman Catholic Church.
