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Foreign population boom
THE latest immigration figures released on Tuesday, February 14 revealed that the number of foreign nationals residing in Mallorca has increased exponentially in the last 25 years.
Population figures show that Mallorca’s population rose from 23,887 foreign residents in 1996 to today’s figure of 166,056, a sevenfold increase.
Increasing numbers of foreign nationals have chosen to relocate to Mallorca due to the island’s pleasant yearround climate, its diverse activities and experiences, and expanding opportunities for families, businesspeople and retired people.
The figures in Mallorca are not alone however, they follow the same trend as the Balearic Islands as a whole which have seen a foreign population growth of a staggering 600 per cent in the last 25 years, while the Spanish population rose by 50 per cent. The population of the islands shot up from 32,102 residents in 1996 to 222,017 by Sunday, January 1, a growth of nearly 200,000 people.
Population data also re vealed that Mallorca’s population is becoming more and more diverse, with many nationalities now represented on the island. In coming years, migration from South America is expected to overtake that from Africa.
Ceramic connoisseurs
THE Fira del Fang, the most impressive ceramics fair, is returning to Mallorca for its 38th edition this March. The ceramics fair brings together the rich history of the pottery industry on the island through workshops and exhibitions in the town of Marratxi.
This year’s edition of the festival is set to take place from Saturday, March 4 for more than a week until Sunday, March 12, with the theme of ‘retrospect’, looking back over past editions of the fair as well as the traditional art and practical uses of ceramics on the island.
Ceramic experts from the local community as well as international experts share their skills and expertise with guests who can learn new techniques at the fair.
As well as showcasing ceramic techniques and historical artefacts, the pottery fair is also an opportunity for guests to peruse stalls of handmade artisan earthenware and pottery items to buy for themselves.
Traditional local folk dances are also performed alongside the demonstrations at the fair to entertain guests as well as culinary activities.
More information about each day’s schedule is available online from: https://ceramicademarratxi.es/firadelfang/?lang=es.
