The department responsible for Culture & Heritage within the Consell de Mallorca yesterday announced a number of measures for buildings with, or hoping to receive, 'BIC' (Bien de Interés Cultural) protective status.
Can Lis, the house designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon, is to be awarded BIC status in March. The architect, who is most famously known for designing the Sydney Opera House, created the house in Portopetro during the 1970's using sandstone, ceramics and tiles of the local area of Santanyi.
In the same area of south east Mallorca, the owners of Castle Santueri (already a holder of BIC status) had applied for permission to host guided tours around the castle and its grounds. These initial plans included placing a number of information boards around the grounds and the creation of a viewing platform. Whilst the plans were rejected by the heritage council, it was suggested that a team be put together to create a new plan that would allow small guided tours around the site, but would be more protective of the remains of the ruined castle.
The department has also approved the removal of a replica soundboard in Palma Cathedral that was used to amplify the services. This will create more space for the choir. The original soundboard had been designed by Antonio Gaudi but was removed in the 1970's because of its poor performance.
