Cala Figuera (Formentor), Mallorca. Credit: Engel Drohnenpilot/Shutterstock
Floating between 50 and 190 miles off Spain’s east coast, the Balearic Islands are less a cluster and more a well-rehearsed ensemble. This archipelago divides neatly into two troupes: the Balearics proper – Majorca, Minorca and Cabrera – and the Pitiusas, starring Ibiza and Formentera.
Palma, the capital of the autonomous community since 1983, conducts proceedings with Mediterranean flair. The islands became a Spanish province in 1833, though a parade of earlier visitors had already left their calling cards. Hills, plateaus and lowlands provide the scenery, while tourism delivers the applause – and most of the income.
History here is not so much taught as performed. The prehistoric Talayotic civilisation erected stout stone towers, the talayots, which still look as if they might audition for a fortress role. Successive rulers – the Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Moors and, finally, the Spanish – added their own lines to the script, creating a notably eclectic heritage.
There are curious set pieces, too: the naveta, a collective tomb shaped like an upturned boat and Minorca’s taula, a hefty T-shaped monument. In Mahón, a splendid natural harbour hints at strategic ambition, while Palma offers a Gothic cathedral and the round, watchful Bellver Castle.
Altogether, it is history with sunshine, served generously and best enjoyed slowly. So, looking for a rewarding place to visit this summer? Head to the Balearic Islands!
Finally, many thanks for your continued emails to my website below. Delighted you enjoy my column – and novels!
Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The House of Secrets’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
