The imposing facade of the Institut d’Educació Secundària Ramon Llull stands before you. Its history whispers secrets.
This isn’t just any school. The Institut d’Educació Secundària Ramon Llull in Palma de Mallorca is steeped in history. It occupies a building over 70 years old. This very spot once housed the ancient Institut Balear. Founded in 1836 by the Societat Econòmica Mallorquina d’Amics del País it was a pioneer. It was the first institution in Spain to offer proper secondary education. This predated the creation of official secondary studies. The Institut Balear was truly Spain’s first high school.
Think of the students who walked these halls. They were taught under the progressive influence of French lycées. This made it a popular choice for Mallorca’s liberal bourgeoisie. For many years the director was Francesc Manuel de los Herreros. He was a professor of psychology and a collaborator of Archduke Louis Salvator of Austria.
The building itself is a testament to history. Construction began in 1912. It’s part of a larger architectural complex. This included the Institut General i Tècnic the Escola d’Arts Aplicades i Oficis Artístics and the Biblioteca Provincial.
In 1936 just after the Nationalist Uprising something significant happened. Director Bartomeu Bosch announced a name change. The Institut Balear became the Institut d’Educació Secundària Ramon Llull. This was a calculated move. It distanced the school from its previously liberal image.
Today the Institut d’Educació Secundària Ramon Llull remains a vibrant center of learning. It comprises three distinct parts. The original school an independent graphic design school and a building owned by the University of the Balearic Islands. The building’s eclectic architectural style blends Renaissance Baroque and regional influences. This reflects a rich and complex history. A history which continues to unfold within these walls. The square in front. Now known as Plaça del Tub is a focal point of the city. It acquired its nickname in 1983 thanks to a controversial tubular sculpture. This marks the evolution of the building and its place in the city’s vibrant character.
The Institut d’Educació Secundària Ramon Llull’s legacy extends far beyond its walls. It played a critical role in shaping Mallorca’s cultural and intellectual landscape. This is a place where history education and community intertwine. It stands as a lasting tribute to its distinguished past. A testament to its ongoing contributions to the island’s future.