El Hierro

El Hierro, the smallest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, rugged coastlines, and rich biodiversity. With a total area of just under 270 square kilometres, the island has been shaped by numerous volcanic eruptions, the most recent of which occurred offshore in 2011–2012, significantly expanding scientific understanding of the region’s volcanic activity. Historically, El Hierro was known to ancient Romans and Greeks as one of the westernmost points of the known world; for centuries, the island’s Punta de Orchilla served as the prime meridian, marking “the end of the world” on maps from the 2nd century until the late 19th century. The native Bimbache people, believed to be of North African origin, inhabited El Hierro long before the Spanish conquistadors led by Jean de Béthencourt claimed it in 1405. During the 18th and 19th centuries, El Hierro’s isolation was further highlighted by the numerous expeditions and scientific studies executed on the island, including notable visits by renowned figures such as Alexander von Humboldt. In 2000, El Hierro was declared a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, underlining its global ecological importance. In more recent years, the island has become a pioneer in renewable energy, inaugurating the Gorona del Viento hydro-wind power station in 2014, making it one of the world’s first islands striving for energy self-sufficiency. Owing to its isolation and strict conservation efforts, El Hierro offers a fascinating glimpse into both history and natural evolution, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.