Mallorca Council promotes seafaring culture with 'Fish and Seafood from the Balearic Sea'

This is a visual guide aimed at promoting responsible consumption and spreading awareness of traditional fishing methods in Mallorca among schoolchildren and the general public.

On April 7, the Consell de Mallorca presented its new outreach campaign “Peixos i marisc de la mar balear” (Fish and Seafood from the Balearic Sea) at the Mercat de l’Olivar in Palma. The initiative’s goal is to bring the island’s fishing traditions and maritime culture closer to both educational centers and the wider public.

The Vice President of the Consell and Minister of Culture and Heritage, Antònia Roca, emphasized that “this project offers a visual and detailed guide to the optimal fishing seasons for species in our waters. It also highlights traditional fishing techniques, reinforcing the connection between our cultural heritage and the need to protect the marine environment.”

Roca noted, “The sea is an essential part of Mallorca’s identity. The island’s history has been shaped by fishing and marine biodiversity. With this campaign, we want to ensure that future generations understand this legacy while also promoting sustainable fishing that respects seasonal cycles and helps preserve biodiversity.”

Albert Forés, Director of the Museu Marítim de Mallorca, highlighted the collaboration between institutions and experts that made the campaign possible: “We’ve had support from the Sant Pere de Palma Fishermen’s Guild, the Spanish Institute of Oceanography, the CSIC, and the Planet Tuna project. The scientific accuracy of the content and the educational focus of the campaign are key to making maritime culture accessible to students and the broader public,” he explained.

The campaign includes graphic materials such as posters and brochures featuring illustrations by Flavia Gargiulo Rosa and texts by María López. These clearly and visually explain the main species found in the Balearic Sea, their seasonality, and traditional fishing techniques—from the potera and palangre to the llampuguera and jonquillera net.

The materials will be distributed in schools participating in the activities of the Museu Marítim de Mallorca and at Palma’s fishing dock. They will also be available at local fish markets, small businesses, and during the Sardine Festival (Fira de la Sardina), to be held in Palma from May 15 to 18. The aim is to raise public awareness about the importance of maritime heritage and responsible fishing practices.