San Bartolomé is a busy administrative town northwest Arrecife
Before tourism became the major driver of the Lanzarote economy, the major commerce on the islands was agriculture. Evidence of this rural heritage is everywhere. Throughout the centuries, farmers have had to work very small amounts of precipitation and have creatively experimented with two ingenious methods of irrigation.
To the north of the San Bartolome are the vineyards of La Geria. The volcanic stone semi-circles are still used as retain, then release overnight dew and to shield immature vines.
To the east of the town, lies what one first viewing appears to be virtual wilderness. But these fields benefit from damp soil and sand, known as jable, which is carried on the wind from the coast.
The extra moisture afforded by these grains allows the growth of crops, including sweet potato and watermelon.
This ingenuity was significantly celebrated by famous local artist and architect Cesar Manrique the well known architect and artist born in Lanzarote. On the outskirts of San Bartolomé he created The Monumento al Campesino.
This large 15 metre high figure of a farmer with his herd is crafted from water tanks retrieved from obsolete fishing craft. It is intended to draw attention to the endurance and resourcefulness of the farm workers and the historic importance of agricultural life had on Lanzarote.
San Bartolomé has some fascinating, historic buildings and museums.
Including, Museo al Campesino, Casa Ajei, Museo del Tanit and Casa Mayor Guerra.
