The first of October is the Day of the Most Beautiful Villages in Spain, which the Los Pueblos Más Bonitos de España association established in 2014. The association has been in existence since 2011; it was modelled on the French 'Les Plus Beaux Villages de France'.
There are 122 of these villages. They have been awarded this status in accordance with an association aim to preserve artistic and cultural heritage and the authenticity and richness of Spain.
Just two are in Mallorca. Fornalutx was the first to be named, and Alcudia has since followed. Pollensa became part of the network at the same time as Alcudia (2020), but ceased to be at the start of this year.
The town hall took this decision, as being part of the network - which costs 6,000 euros a year - was said not to fit with its strategic plan for tourism. The town hall cited a greater focus on attracting specific tourism segments, e.g. sport.
The celebrations for October 1 include a variety of cultural activities in Alcudia and Fornalutx, such as free guided tours to temporary exhibitions on history and traditions. Town halls have taken the opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to preserving heritage and developing a sustainable tourism model that respects local identity.