Santa Margalida, also known as Santa Margarita, is a township located in the northwest of the central area of Mallorca. It is formed by three population centers: Can Picafort, Son Serra de Marina and the town of Santa Margalida. This area stands out for its rich landscape. It is also known for its rich cultural and historical heritage, with excavations that bear witness to the human presence during prehistoric times.
In this post, we will take you through the most outstanding corners of Santa Margalida. We will discover together its history, traditions and lifestyle. If you are looking for a central location in Mallorca, Santa Margalida is definitely a place to set your eyes on.
Where in Mallorca is Santa Margalida?
Santa Margalida belongs to the region of Pla de Mallorca and borders with the municipalities of Arta, Maria de la Salud, Muro, Petra and Ariany, on the island of Mallorca, in the Balearic Islands of Spain.
It is about 47 kilometers from Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), which is approximately 46 minutes by car or two hours by bus. The nearest coast is about 13 km away, if you go along the Ma-3400 road.
History of Santa Margalida
Santa Margalida often goes unnoticed by its neighboring villages, which are a little better known. For centuries, the fertile land in the surrounding area has been used for agriculture and livestock farming.
Santa Margalida is a district with great archaeological wealth. There are about 153 excavations that bear witness to the human presence during prehistoric times. The most important site is the Necropolis of Son Real, unique in Spain and the entire Mediterranean. There are also burial caves from the pre-Talayotic period.
During the Roman period, the inhabitants limited themselves to giving continuity to and taking advantage of the constructions of previous periods.
In the Muslim period, Mallorca was divided into twelve districts and Santa Margalida (Hiachat) was part of the district of Muruh. With the Christian conquest the district was restructured in two parts between the district of San Joan de Muro and the district of Santa Margalida. In the Llibre del repartiment (1232) it is recorded how the Muruh area became the property of Ponç Hug, Count of Ampurias.
This area stands out for being a rich place in terms of landscape, culture and gastronomy. The views of the extensive fields show the agricultural power, especially the cereal production of this region.
Currently the great economic power depends on the tourism sector, located in the town of Can Picafort, a place that originated with small fishermen’s houses and has ended up becoming one of the reference areas of Majorcan tourism.
What activities can be done in Santa Margalida?
The village of Santa Margalida is small and can be discovered by foot. Pay attention to the ceramic signs that pay tribute to the tradition of the village. Stroll along the tree-lined Passeig des Pouás, where the town hall is located, and then go to the Mirador d’Esglèsia for excellent views of the surroundings. A five-minute walk from the church you can visit the flour mills of Molí d’en Curt and Molí d’en Cifre.
You can soak up the atmosphere in the Plaza de la Vila before strolling south to see some of the town’s oldest and most architecturally interesting buildings, such as the Posada de sa Boleda, Sa Granja, Can Camisa and the former apothecary, Apotecaria Vella. On the outskirts are ancient wells and water systems, including the Roman Pou d’Hero and the water mill, S’Hort des Mestre..
Near the heart of the city, all these historic buildings are located, including the church of Santa Margalida, which is the most emblematic building of the city. Its position offers spectacular panoramic views.
A statue of translator and poet Joan Mascaró i Fornés stands in front of his country house at Hort d’en Degollat, which today has remnants of an ancient Islamic water system. Mascaró i Fornés studied Sanskrit in Cambridge, England, and would go on to write one of the most popular translations of the Bhagavad Gita.
Santa Margalida was also the birthplace of Juan March Ordinas, the founder of one of the richest family empires in Spain. His father, Juan March Estelrich, resided in the manor house of Can Verge Vell, located on Constitution Street, which is the address of the 16th century rectory house.
Natural scapes in Santa Margalida
The central area of Mallorca is one of the most beautiful and diverse regions, despite its lack of sea views. Its central location and the beauty of its natural surroundings make it ideal for outdoor walks in and around the village. The following 4 hiking trails are especially recommended:
Santa Margalida: urban route
This is a short excursion through the center of the village to get to know its heritage and rural streets. The level is easy, it can be done with the family. The extension is four and a half kilometers, while the duration is approximately one hour.
Can Picafort - Necrópolis - Son Real
A simple itinerary, well indicated and can be done with the family. The long extension is eight kilometers and the approximate duration is almost three hours. You can stop at the necropolis to rest.
Can Picafort - Son Serra
Hiking route that has a very similar itinerary to the previous one, the difference is that it does not stop at the estate of Son Real, but reaches Son Serra. It has an easy level with an extension of five kilometers. The duration is approximately two and a half hours. If you do it in summer you can take the opportunity to bathe in one of the most virgin beaches of the island..
Houses in Son Serra de Marina - s'Estanyol Neighborhood
Excursion that starts at the old houses of Son Serra and runs along the beach, keep in mind that the dune area can be a little heavier. Even so it is a route with a moderate level that is almost 10 kilometers long. The approximate duration is four hours.
What is the gastronomy like in Santa Margarita, Mallorca?
The offer in restaurants in Santa Margalida is a bit limited. There are a few cafés near the town square, such as Sa Granja Calafat, which serves traditional tapas. If you are looking for fresh fish and Mallorcan cuisine, try Can Pep. If you prefer other options you can visit the coast.
What is the lifestyle like in the village of Santa Margalida, Mallorca?
Santa Margalida is a rural village with an authentic Mediterranean spirit known locally as an excellent place to live on the island. As well as suiting those looking for a quiet country lifestyle, it also gives the possibility to attend a variety of fairs and festivals in the village and the surrounding areas.
The village as such has over 3,500 residents and has all the services required for comfortable living, including a primary and secondary school.
For example, this beautiful 14000 m2 property with views in Sa Teulada, where we find a house from 2008 with swimming pool, garage and several buildings for animals, is an ideal place to lead a happy and complete family life.
The municipality Santa Margalida, with a population of approximately 12776 inhabitants, includes the coastal villages of Can Picafort and Son Serra de Marina. Both are located less than 13 km from the city and attract visitors for different reasons. Tourists will find many things to do in Can Picafort thanks to its stores, restaurants and promenades. Son Serra de Marina is an unspoiled beach loved by water sports enthusiasts. Between these two places is the public estate of Son Real, which has several hiking and biking trails and where the ancient Necropolis is located.
For all these reasons, the village of Santa Margalida is not only a suitable place for those who are looking for an in-depth knowledge of Mallorcan culture and its rich history. It also allows you to enjoy the tourism, nightlife and amenities of the nearby coastal towns without leaving the countryside.
Is it worth moving to Santa Margalida?
Normally, on islands where the focus tends to be on seaside activities, the center is often underestimated. A town with centuries of history that allows you access to the services and activities of several coastal towns, while enjoying the benefits of a wide expanse of arable land, can be the key to balancing economic sustainability and personal satisfaction in your life.
An example of this is the Buildable Farm of 27600m2, with project in Son Fullos. This is located about 20 minutes from the sea and offers the possibility of developing an excellent project with a more modest investment than what it would cost in any of the adjacent towns.
In conclusion, if you like the idea of living away from the constant hustle and bustle of the cities, but also want to be close enough to attend social events and outdoor activities, this is the right town for you.
