Culture and history
Formentera boasts a long and interesting history that essentially mirrors that of neighbouring Ibiza. The earliest known human presence on the island dates back to the megalithic period; evidence can be seen at the Ca Na Costa tomb from the same period located near present day Es Pujols. Since that time the island has come under the control of a series of conquerors that have all left their mark on the island’s culture and traditions.
The remains of the Roman Can Blai encampment, a marker of the impact of the Romans had on this small island, can be found today near Es Calo. The island’s name is derived from the Roman word frumentaria, meaning ‘wheat granary’, reflecting its role under Roman control as a productive agricultural centre.
The Moorish occupation left Islamic architectural reminders such as wells, freshwater tanks and the remains of houses scattered across the island; while the Catalonian conquest marked the end of Arab rule in 1235. Later, in the early 15th century the island was depopulated due to a lack of freshwater and the threat of Turkish pirate raids. Repopulation began nearly 300 years later in 1695, the year which marks the beginning of the island’s modern history. In 1726, the Church of Sant Francesc Xavier, which also acted as a refuge for those seeking shelter from pirate attacks, was built. Agriculture never attained the productivity it enjoyed during Roman times, therefore development and population growth remained steady.
At least that was until the 1960s, when the island underwent an invasion of a different kind; hippies discovered the island’s stunning natural beauty and relaxed, laid back lifestyle, with many choosing to stay on. This was the birth of the tourism industry, which now sustains the island’s income. The Balearic Islands gained special autonomy in 1983 with Catalan becoming an official language along with Spanish.
Formentera folklore and culture follows that of Ibiza and is distinguished by brightly coloured dress and highly symbolic dances. Local singing has a distinct Arab influence, while many of the instruments used are highly unusual and crafted from local materials. Female festive dress is particularly noteworthy with beautiful golden emprendada or gold chains worn around women’s necks.
