The city has a dark underbelly that belies its affluent and stylish central districts, frequented by tourists.

14:38, Tue, Jun 10, 2025 | UPDATED: 14:40, Tue, Jun 10, 2025

Majorca

The city is a popular haunt for Brts on holiday (Image: Getty)

The Balearic Islands are one of the most popular destinations for travellers heading to Spain on their holidays. Last year alone, some 18.7 million tourists flocked to the sunny paradise, among them many Brits.

It is estimated that more than 2.3 million British holidaymakers visit the islands each year. Many end up in Palma, Majorca's vibrant and stylish capital, which offers not only beautiful beaches but also a historic old town.

Spain

Homelessness is a growing problem in Spain (Image: Getty)

The UK is a major market for the city, with the Palma Tourist Board describing British tourists as "high quality" and actively welcoming them.

However, the city has a dark underbelly that belies its affluent and stylish central districts, frequented by tourists.

City authorities have been struggling with a proliferation of shanty dwellings, which, according to some estimates, have increased by 10% over the last four or so years.

Some sources claim there are around 1,100 homeless people in Palma, the vast majority of whom came in search of better job opportunities.

That figure has been disputed by city councillors, who are currently conducting a new census of the homeless.

Palma's mayor, Jaime Martínez, said the town hall has so far identified approximately 600 people living in various shanty settlements scattered throughout the city.

"Only with objective data can we address this problem and be effective in responding," he told the Majorca Daily Bulletin.

There are now various shanty settlements scattered around Majorca's capital city.

One of the longest-established, other than the former prison, is under the bridge at the Sa Riera Park.

Invalid email

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

The most striking is now by the Son Serra Parera Park and the one-time Riskal entertainment centre. Others are in different locations along the Via Cintura.

The Can Valero, Son Castelló and Son Rossinyol industrial estates all have settlements.

Then there are those in the Can Pastilla area, while the airport continues to attract the homeless, regardless of efforts made by the management to prevent them from gaining access.