Centuries of history point to the importance of salt on our island. The Carthaginians were the first to exploit its production in the 5th century BC; even that far back it was the primary industry, as well as being a great way to preserve food. It was also of fundamental importance to the Phoenicians, Romans and Muslims, and continues to be key for Ibizans today. Salt is one of the basics of life in Ibiza, a historical part of its culture and heritage, a mineral that organically and sustainably connects nature with the economy.
To honor this heritage, the Fira de la Sal (Salt Fair) will be held in Sant Jordi de Ses Salines from October 18 to 20. This is an event organized by the Sant Josep City Council and the Ibiza Island Council, and with the collaboration of the Ses Salines d’Eivissa i Formentera Natural Park and Salinera Española salt company. For yet another year, it will serve to remind us of the importance of the salt tradition in the history of the island and pay tribute to the landscape and cultural legacy left by salt mining.
The high point of the Fira is l’encesa del fogueró, a bonfire that harks back to the era of l’Antic Munt de sal des Pantano, the old salt pile, thus recalling the tradition that called on salt workers to carry out the work of extraction. There is a program full of activities for the whole family, all related to salt, including demonstrations of its traditional harvest, tastings of traditional dishes, live music, dramatized visits, country dancing and a craft market.
The Fira de la Sal is a tribute to the people who worked in the salt mines, and an event that raises awareness of the traditions that surround the manual extraction of salt, creating a wide range of activities that, at the same time, allow people to view the Natural Park through different eyes.
Mark it on your calendar.
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