Modernity in ruins

Throughout recent history, industrial activity has left traces that are becoming part of our cultural heritage. These vestiges, ranging from production processes to means of transport, have been key in the evolution of our cities and in the formation of the identity of their landscapes.

Industrial heritage includes a diverse set of real estate and intangible assets that reflect the work culture. These elements not only represent an architectural legacy, but also bear witness to the social and technical relationships that have defined the context of contemporary societies.

The Spanish industrial heritage information system currently lists twelve old mills located on Ibiza, three of which, Molí de Pep Juan, Molí den Fèlix and Molí de Toni Joan, have been declared Sites of Cultural Interest. The Molí de Pep Juan, for example, stands 9.50 metres high and possibly dates from the 16th century, and is a symbol of the island's technical heritage.

Another outstanding example of industrial heritage, although not in ruins, is Can Ventosa, a former Art Nouveau textile factory that has been transformed into a vibrant cultural centre. Built in 1925, this building has maintained its original essence while adapting to contemporary needs: it hosts plays, concerts and cultural activities that connect the industrial past with the modern life of Ibiza.

The conservation and study of these elements are essential to understanding the history and development of the island, revealing a key chapter in its cultural evolution.