Wood as art

Wood craftsmanship in Majorca has its roots in the Middle Ages, when carpenters and image-makers began to work in an organised way on the island. During this period, these groups consolidated and perfected their craft in workshops, creating high quality carvings and decorative pieces. Historical research reveals that these workshops were the hub of a very active craft world, making use of the island's resources and passing on knowledge from generation to generation. Thus, the tradition of woodworking was established, becoming an essential practice in Majorcan culture.

The olive tree is, without a doubt, the soul of Majorcan wood. With a long tradition of olive growing and oil production, this noble wood is used in the creation of all kinds of decorative items and utensils. Famous for its strength and beautiful grain, olive wood is highly prized by artisans and quality connoisseurs alike. It is used to make everything from kitchen utensils such as spoons and cutting boards to elegant decorative elements that carry the essence of the island.

In the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range

Handcrafted woodwork is one of the distinctive pillars of Majorcan craftsmanship, which is produced in several locations on the island. In the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, a World Heritage Site, the village of Sóller offers travellers a unique opportunity to discover olive wood craftsmanship in its purest form. Handmade jewels such as salad bowls, cutlery, chopping boards and a host of decorative pieces, authentic souvenirs of the island, are handcrafted in their workshops. 

Each of these objects is carved with precision and care, details that turn each piece into a treasure that evokes the tranquillity and beauty of the island. Many of these workshops continue to use manual methods and local materials. Their creations can be found in shops and markets, where visitors can see pieces that preserve the style and quality of craftsmanship of past generations.

In addition to traditional pieces, woodwork in Majorca has been currently adapted to contemporary aesthetics and you can find truly exclusive pieces that preserve the essence of tradition and, at the same time, respond to current tastes. This fusion of modern design and ancestral craftsmanship makes each wooden article unique, a symbol of Majorcan authenticity that visitors can take home as a souvenir of their stay on the island.