Sa Pobla

History & Culture in Sa Pobla

Sa Pobla's early history

The earliest signs of human presence in this area date back to the Talayotic period. Small archaeological remains from this time, such as Sa Paret des Moros and Cap de Bou de Talapi, suggest early human activity in the region.

The Romans arrived in the Balearic Islands in 123 BC under Quintus Caecilius Metellus. In the area now known as Crestatx, discoveries of amphorae, ceramics and coins point to a Roman presence. The name “Crestatx” comes from the Latin word castra, meaning “camp”, which supports the idea that the earliest settlement linked to what is now Sa Pobla began there.

Moorish rule and King Jaume I

During Muslim rule, Sa Pobla belonged to the Inca district and was known as "Huayar-Alfar" or "Huayar-Alfhas," meaning "elms of the field" or "water of the meadow." Evidence of this period remains in waterwheels, fountains and place names like Talapi, Sa Marjal and el Rafal.

The area likely offered little resistance to King Jaume I during the conquest of Mallorca in 1229. According to the Llibre del Repartiment, the king granted land to knights from Barcelona who joined the campaign. Sa Pobla was officially founded in 1300 under the Ordinacions of Jaume II. A new settlement was established on the site of the current town, replacing the earlier centre at Crestatx

The Middle Ages 

A period of intense social conflict, with Sa Pobla playing a key role due to its location and agricultural importance. Major uprisings like the Revolta Forana (1450–53) and the Germanies (1520–23) led to clashes between peasants and Palma’s landowning classes. Notable battles include Muro (1451), Son Sabater (1522) and Son Fornari (1522).

The 16th and 17th centuries to modern day

During these years Sa Pobla faced severe subsistence crises caused by poor harvests and drought. A major economic shift came in the late 19th century, when new farming techniques and the drying of the Albufera boosted agricultural output. This transformation made Sa Pobla one of the island’s most prosperous areas, marked by the arrival of the railway in 1878.

Today, agriculture remains central to the local economy. Sa Pobla is especially known for its large-scale potato production, with much of it exported to the UK. In recent years, the service sector and holiday tourism have also grown steadily.

See our History Guide

Sights & Attractions in Sa Pobla

History, architecture and culture in Sa Pobla

The most important buildings in Sa Pobla are the rural “possessions” and stately homes, once residences of the wealthy classes. These large estates, often with chapels, mills and storage facilities, functioned as rural villages supporting agricultural life. Many date back to before the Christian conquest in 1229, with origins in prehistoric, Roman and Islamic periods. Today, many possessions are being restored, with some adapted for tourism. Most names follow the “Son” prefix, meaning “property of,” linked to the original owner’s name.

Sa Pobla is home to 15 protected religious sites valued for their historical and artistic significance. These include rural oratories on old estates, the municipal cemetery and the Parish Church of Sant Antoni Abat. Many have survived over time thanks to ongoing use and devotion. The church, near the Plaza Mayor, is considered the town’s main landmark, alongside other notable sites like the cemetery, the Crestatx Oratory and several historic crosses.

Museums and art galleries

The arts are well represented here, with a contemporary art gallery Can Planes.

Events in Sa Pobla

Sant Antoni

Sant Antoni is arguably the biggest night in Sa Pobla, where devils run through the streets. Saint Anthony was adopted as the patron saint of Sa Pobla, and as early as the Middle Ages pets and livestock were taken to town for the priest to bless them. Anthony was a Christian monk that lived in Egypt in the 3rd centruy who turned his back on earthly pleasures when he turned to God, even though demons frequently tempted him, making him known as the ‘father of monks’.

Jazz

As well as religious festivals Sa Pobla holds a jazz festival that takes place every August. 

Holidays Rentals in Sa Pobla

Staying in short-term rental accommodation gives you the freedom to enjoy the town at your own pace. Whether in the historic centre or near the mountains, it’s a relaxed and flexible base. With extra space and the option to cook or dine out, it’s ideal for a comfortable holiday.

Hotels in Sa Pobla

The area offers a fantastic range of hotels to suit all budgets, with increasing attention in recent years for its luxury boutique-style accommodation.

How to get to Sa Pobla

By car

Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca, and Sa Pobla is only a 45 minute car journey from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport by booking a private transfer.

Public transport

There is no direct bus route from Palma airport to Sa Pobla, you would need to change in Palma bus station.

See our Getting Here Guide