[2] But in the unsettled times of the early Middle Ages the settlement was moved inland to the hill of Espíritu Santo but an earthquake destroyed it in 1518.

In the late 19th century the town expanded due to mining activity in the region, but it subsequently declined until its recent development as a tourist centre[citation needed].

On 21 July 2013 a local group called Vera Playa Friends organised a Guinness World Record attempt at the largest ever skinny dip.

The event was organised by Vera Playa Friends in association with Vera Town hall and Tourist Office, also heavily involved were the Spanish Naturist Federation and the day chosen was the "day without swimsuits" with hundreds of Spanish naturists flocking to the beach [citation needed].

A local charity for children suffering from disabilities benefited from the Guinness World Record crowds [citation needed].