Do you see that seated figure under the eucalyptus trees? That is the Isidor Macabich Statue. It honors a remarkable priest and historian.
The Isidor Macabich Statue is found in Ibiza’s Dalt Vila or Old Town. Isidor Macabich i Llobet was a chaplain and historian. He explored Ibiza’s historical roots deeply. No one did it quite like him.
Born in 1883 Isidor Macabich came from a Croatian immigrant family. He died in Barcelona 90 years later. The Isidor Macabich Statue was unveiled in 1980. This was seven years after his death.
Macabich was active in Ibiza. He founded the Centre for Social Action and Federation Catolicoagraria Ibiza. In 1935 he started writing his History of Ibiza. It was published in four volumes in 1966-1967.
Besides being a historian Isidor Macabich was many things. He was a writer, columnist, poet, archaeologist and teacher. He was a multifaceted and controversial chaplain.
From his spot the Isidor Macabich Statue seems to welcome visitors. It invites you to explore Ibiza’s historical and cultural heritage. The statue shows him with an open book. It is probably the Bible.
Interestingly when first unveiled on August 5 1980 the Isidor Macabich Statue wore glasses. Sadly they only lasted a day. The architect Elías Torres said they fell off the next day. Without lenses the bronze face looks bewildered under his Pope’s prelate hat. This is different from how people remembered him.
Isidor Macabich’s life was dedicated to understanding and sharing Ibiza’s story. His statue reminds us of his contributions.
Isidor Macabich was the first of Ibiza’s native sons to give the island a literary identity of its own. His writings also brought the first flush of local pride.
Macabich’s works can be divided into three phases. In the first he wrote monographs about random aspects of the island’s history according to his own interest.
Later he was named Chronicler of Ibiza by the Town Hall and later Director of the Historical Archive and President of the Board of Patrons for the Archaeological Museum.
So take a moment to appreciate this tribute to a great man. Consider the depth of history he uncovered. Let the Isidor Macabich Statue inspire you to delve deeper into Ibiza’s past.