s’Estany Pudent

Why is this shimmering expanse of water called s’Estany Pudent, which translates to “smelly lake”? Standing here, on the edge of Formentera’s largest lagoon, you might find that a rather unappealing name for such a picturesque location. The answer, however, lies buried in the lake’s past. S’Estany Pudent wasn’t always a saltwater lagoon. Centuries ago, this was a freshwater lake, a breeding ground for mosquitos, and unfortunately, a source of diseases. The stagnant water emitted an unpleasant odor, earning it the rather unfortunate moniker “Estany Pudent”. This name stuck, even though the lake was later deliberately connected to the sea via the Sa Sèquia canal in the 18th century. This ingenious intervention transformed s’Estany Pudent into a saltwater lagoon, effectively curbing the spread of diseases. Moreover, the canal paved the way for salt production. The salt, a precious commodity, was then transported by train to the bustling port of La Savina for export. Today, the s’Estany Pudent, despite its name, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for the graceful flamingos that frequent this area, especially during the autumn and winter months. You might even spot other bird species like storks and plovers. This vibrant ecosystem stands as a testament to Formentera’s remarkable biodiversity and serves as a reminder of the island’s intriguing past, where a smelly problem led to an ingenious solution.