“Did the wind whisper secrets to the miller here at molí des Forn?” I ask, turning to face you all beneath the sturdy wooden arms of this old windmill. Molí des Forn stands as a testament to Palma’s rich agricultural past. It’s a place where the rhythms of nature, the strength of the wind, and the ingenuity of man once intertwined to create something essential: flour. Molí des Forn wasn’t just a building. It was the heart of a process that sustained a community. The knowledge we have tells us that the area where molí des Forn stands, La Lonja in Palma’s historic center, has a long and fascinating history. Originally, molí des Forn was part of a bustling bakery in the 19th century, serving the local community with daily bread and other baked goods. Imagine the aroma of fresh bread wafting through the narrow streets, drawing people in. This building has witnessed centuries of change, transitioning from a vital bakery to the restaurant it is today. In 1992, Joan Baquès, recognizing the historical significance of this place, transformed the old bakery into Forn de Sant Joan restaurant. His sons, Carlos and Christian, later renovated the restaurant, marking a new chapter in molí des Forn’s story. While the original purpose has shifted, the spirit of community and nourishment remains. Today, it’s a place where people gather not for daily bread, but for culinary experiences. The restaurant offers diverse spaces, from the elegant Main Room to the intimate Sala Cristal and the romantic Sala Roja, each designed to provide a unique atmosphere. And the Bar-Lounge, a perfect spot for tapas and drinks, adds a modern touch to this historic setting. So, as you gaze at molí des Forn, remember the generations who relied on its function, the families who broke bread made from its flour, and the vision that transformed it into a place where we can still gather and share a meal.
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,