Beneath the warm Spanish sun stands Ca’s Jai. What secrets does this building hold?
Ca’s Jai serves as the international relations center for the University of the Balearic Islands. Its main facade faces the world. The university connects with other institutions globally from here.
Let’s delve into the story of Palma de Mallorca. Palma, also called Ciutat de Mallorca, is the capital of the Balearic Islands. Founded as a Roman camp it became a vibrant city over centuries.
After Roman rule, the Byzantine Empire held sway. Then came the Moors, who named it Medina Mayurqa. In the 13th century, James I of Aragon reconquered it.
Palma thrived as a trade hub. Its port connected Catalonia Valencia and North Africa. It linked the Italian republics with the Ottoman Empire. This golden age ended with the Aragonese conquest in 1344.
The city faced challenges. There were anti-Jewish riots in 1391. Turkish and Berber pirate attacks reduced trade. The city invested heavily in defense.
The 17th century saw division. Two gangs Canamunts and Canavalls caused social and economic strife. The port became a pirate haven.
In the late 17th century, the Inquisition persecuted the Xuetes. These were the city’s Jews. They practiced endogamy marrying within their group.
Barcelona’s fall in 1714 brought changes. Philip V of Spain issued the Nueva Planta decrees in 1715. Palma’s government was separated from the island’s.
The 18th century saw growth. Charles III of Spain allowed trade with Spanish colonies in America. Palma’s port and commerce revived.
Palma became a refuge in the 19th century. People fled the Napoleonic occupation of Catalonia and Valencia. Freedom flourished briefly.
In 1833, Palma became the capital of the Balearic Islands province. The French occupation of Algeria reduced the Maghrebi threat. New maritime routes expanded leading to economic growth.
Mass tourism transformed Palma after the 1950s. It attracted workers from mainland Spain. The city’s traditions and language changed.
Tourism now accounts for 80% of the island’s GNP. It has made Mallorca one of Spain’s wealthier regions. Besides tourism agriculture is also significant. Almonds oranges lemons and olives are key exports.
Today Palma is a modern city. It was shortlisted for the European Capital of Smart Tourism award in 2022.
As you stand before Ca’s Jai consider its place in Palma’s story. This international relations center continues Palma’s tradition of connection. It links the island to the wider world through education and collaboration. It embodies Palma’s ongoing evolution a blend of history and progress.