Is it just me or does Cas Capiscol have a story etched into every corner? This neighborhood is more than just streets and buildings. It is a tapestry woven with threads of history.
Cas Capiscol. The name itself whispers tales of Mallorca’s past. It refers to the bond of possessions in this area. Specifically, it refers to the See of Mallorca and its chapter. The terms Capiscol and Ardiaca relate to this. Cas Capiscol grew from these estates. It became an extension of Palma’s expansion. Social factors shaped its community.
Let’s rewind to the 17th century. The estate of Cal Capiscol was documented as early as 1600. It nestled between the Ciutat irrigation canal. It also lay between the Camí de la Real and Esporles. By 1730, it boasted 30 houses. Fig trees and pomegranate trees dotted the landscape. Cereals and legumes thrived in its fields. The estate blossomed into a vital horticultural hub.
Fast forward to the 1960s. Urban development began transforming Cas Capiscol. Construction of government-subsidized housing intensified in the following decade. This was later supported by Cáritas. The area has seen continuous urban growth ever since.
Look around. Imagine the artillery barracks of Son Busquets. The barracks were projected in 1949. The 23rd Artillery Regiment moved here in 1952. Later, the 91st Artillery Regiment absorbed coastal artillery. The Mixed Artillery Regiment No. 91 was formed in 1960. Over the years, facilities were decommissioned. Remaining forces consolidated at the Son Busquets barracks. New defense concepts led to reforms. The Mixed Artillery Regiment No. 91 was deactivated on December 31, 2008. It had served for 51 years.
In 1968, the neighborhood celebrated the opening of its parish church. It was dedicated to the Resurrection. That same year, a new prison was built in Cas Capiscol. It stood near the road to Sóller. Initially, it housed 86 men and 6 women. The prison offered inmates workshops and cultural activities. In 1970, it became the Palma Penitentiary Center. The Our Lady of Mercy patronage supported prisoner rehabilitation. The penitentiary became outdated. It was designed for 400 but housed nearly 1000. A new prison opened in 1999. It was also built on the road to Sóller. In 2013, Palma City Council acquired the old prison. The City Council plans to use it for cultural events. The Som sa Presó platform is developing projects for the building.
Cas Capiscol. It is a place where history and community intertwine. It continues to evolve. It preserves its identity. It embraces the future.