Did you ever hear of a village named after “establishments”? Right here, before us, lies Establiments. Establiments is a quaint village nestled northwest of Palma de Mallorca. Its name, surprisingly, comes from the Catalan word for “establishments” or possessions. Establiments traces its origins back to the 16th century. However, the area’s history stretches much further, evidenced by prehistoric remains found in nearby caves like Son Bauçà and Ca’n Mallol. During the Moorish rule, from the 700s to the 1400s, agriculture flourished in this region. After the Aragonese conquest, the land was granted to Nunó Sanç, leading to the division of large estates. Establiments emerged from this division of land. The first area to be parceled was Son Gual. This area is now known as Establiments Vells or El Rutló. Records show El Rutló consisting of 14 parcels in 1584. Later, in the 12th century, the parceling of des Muntant began. This area, originally part of the Sarrià possession, became Establiments Nous. By 1685, Establiments Vells had grown to 69 parcels and Establiments Nous to 33. Originally part of Esporles, Establiments gained independence in 1837, boasting a population of 1460 by 1847. Farming dominated the 19th century, with crops like wheat, barley, almonds, olives, carobs, and legumes shaping the local economy. However, Establiments was incorporated into Palma de Mallorca in 1910, becoming a neighborhood while retaining much of its original character. The arrival of a tram line in 1926, later replaced by buses in 1959, further connected Establiments to the city. Despite its integration into Palma, Establiments maintains a distinct village atmosphere. It offers tranquil countryside living. It also gives breathtaking views of the Tramuntana mountains. It provides a glimpse into Mallorca’s rich history and agricultural heritage.
Antoni Maria Alcover i Sureda
Born amidst the sun-drenched fields of Santa Cirga, Antoni Maria Alcover i Sureda, a name synonymous with Majorcan literary revival,