Early history
Much of the town was built in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, however, the original settlement dates back to the Arab rule over Mallorca when it was called ‘Mauia’, which translates into English as ‘Stop on the Wayside’.
Being within the flat plains of Binnissalem, Santa Maria del Cami has specialised in viticulture since ancient times, especially since the 18th century when they began to export brandy to the rest of Europe and South America.
Artistic history
Santa Maria has developed a reputation as one of Mallorca's artistic centres.
Many of the island's potters work close by, in Portol, while Santa Maria is the centre for manufacturing 'roba de llengues' ('cloth of tongues'), cotton woven into bright zigzag patterns and used in curtains, bedspreads and upholstery.
Wine
Falling within the Binnissalem region, Santa Maria del Cami is also a hub for winemaking, in fact, the town is surrounded by some of the top vineyards on the island which means many wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts travel to the area to sample its delights.