Heritage Restoration in Formentera: The Case of Sa Senieta

Formentera
Sant Francesc Xavier
ITS2017-063

The Regional Government has acquired this property with a view to restoring it and giving it a new purpose

What does it consist of?

Sa Senieta estate, in the centre of Sant Francesc Xavier, has been acquired in order to protect one of the few remaining examples of Formentera’s traditional architecture. The plan allows the building to be open to the public while respecting its historical value and its conservation status.

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Data

PROJECT TITLE IN THE CALL
Acquisition of the Sa Senieta de Formentera rural estate
LOCATION
Formentera (Formentera)
Entity submitting the PROJECT
Consell Insular de Formentera
Entity that executes the project
Consell Insular de Formentera
Project code
ITS2017-063
Total project amount
3.450.000 €
ITS granted amount
1.000.000 €
Executed amount
1.000.000 €
Call year
2017
Budget implementation status
Executed
Purpose
Cultural heritage
Budget execution
Executed: 100%
Last updated
26.09.2023

The project

The plan to acquire Sa Senieta estate reflects Formentera Island Council’s commitment to protecting and restoring unique architectural heritage. This is the only house on the island listed as a heritage site under Balearic heritage law (Law 12/1998). Making it available for public use marks a decisive step towards ensuring its conservation and using it in harmony with its protected status.

The estate is located right in the centre of Sant Francesc Xavier. It contains two houses which stand out amongst the island’s rare traditional built heritage due to their size, architectural complexity and good state of repair. Unlike other buildings of its kind, Sa Senieta has avoided major alterations, preserving its original structure and materials.

The ultimate goal is to turn it into a public space for cultural, social and administrative purposes, while fully complying with the restrictions set by its conservation status. The historical records available reveal that the building may date back to the 18th century, making it incredibly valuable both for the local community and for our understanding of the island’s rural past.

The acquisition took place between 2017 and 2018, with €1 million of funding from sustainable tourism tax, out of a total budget of €3.45 million. The action has ensured the future of an irreplaceable feat of architecture in the heart of Formentera.