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The Balearic Islands
(Spanish: Islas Baleares), an archipelago in the western
Mediterranean Sea,
form an autonomous region of
Spain.
The population of 947,361 (2003 est.) is concentrated on the densely
inhabited four main islands -
Ibiza,
Majorca,
Minorca,
and Formentera. The numerous smaller islands are mostly uninhabited.
Total area is 4,992 km2 (1,927 mi2), and the
highest elevation, Torrellas (Puig Mayor), is 1,363 m (4,471 ft).
The Balearics are actually partially submerged peaks that are a
continuation of the mountains of southeastern Spain. The climate and
good soil promote the growing of grapes, olives, citrus fruits, and
pines (for lumber). Other economic activities include fishing and
livestock raising, and some minerals (lead, lignite, and marble) are
found, but the economy is heavily dependent on tourism.
Palma,
the capital, on Majorca, has a permanent population of 367,277 (2003
estimate). |
Successively occupied by the
Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and Byzantines, the Balearics
came under Moorish control in the 8th century and were used as
pirate bases.
James I
of
Aragon
captured them in 1235. After maintaining independence from 1276 to
1343, they returned to Spanish control. During the
Spanish Civil War
(193639),
Majorca and Ibiza were held by insurgents; Minorca remained
Loyalist.
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Mediterranean information:
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