In Alcúdia, in the north of Mallorca, a conflict is brewing between local residents and the Ministry of Defense. Authorities plan to expand the military area on Cabo del Pinar, one of the island’s most picturesque spots. Both tourists and locals enjoy walking here, especially during traditional summer festivities.
Part of this area is already occupied by military facilities, but until now, a balance has been maintained between army needs and the interests of residents. People have adjusted to certain restrictions, but the situation may soon change. The Ministry of Defense, led by Margarita Robles, wants to designate the Jaume II barracks as an area of special significance for national security. This would increase military land to 145 hectares.
The military presence here dates back to the 1940s, when the army acquired these grounds to install batteries and support services. At that time, the municipality of Alcúdia agreed to transfer the land, but with conditions: usage had to be temporary, and the city retained the right to use part of the area for its own needs.
Since then, access to the cape and its coves has been restricted. In 2010, after lengthy discussions, authorities agreed that up to 50 people could enter daily, but only with prior authorization. In practice, however, this limit is not always observed, and the permit process itself discourages many.
For the residents of Alcudia, Cabo del Pinar is more than just a beautiful spot. Local festivals are held here, people organize picnics, and local hunters have an official license to use part of the area until 2028. Hiking enthusiasts often set off from here to the cliffs of Peña del Migdia, and some try to reach secluded coves despite the restrictions.
Plans to expand the military zone have sparked a wave of outrage. The municipality has already submitted objections to the new decree, fearing it will undermine local self-government and deprive residents of their usual access to nature. Authorities are demanding that mandatory permits be revoked and free passage guaranteed to popular trails and coves, including Peña del Migdia and Nido del Águila.
The Ministry of Defense insists that the expansion will not affect civil use of the area, and that even after increasing its territory, the military will not interfere with either hunters or tourists. However, these assurances have failed to convince local residents or politicians. The issue has reached the national level: MP Vicenç Vidal of the Més party, part of the Sumar coalition, spoke out sharply against the initiative, accusing the government of trying to restrict the rights of Mallorcans.
The people of Alcudia are anxiously awaiting a final decision. They do not oppose the military presence, but they do not want new prohibitions. For many, this place is a part of their lives, and they are not ready to accept further restrictions.
