How have changing agricultural practices affected Mallorca's landscape over the years?

Mallorca's landscape has undergone significant changes due to evolving agricultural practices over the years. Traditionally, the island's agriculture was characterized by small-scale, diverse farming, which included crops like olives, almonds, and grapes, as well as the rearing of livestock. These practices preserved the rural landscape, maintaining a patchwork of terraced fields and natural vegetation that contributed to biodiversity.

However, in recent decades, there has been a shift towards more intensive agricultural methods and monocultures, particularly in the cultivation of crops like tomatoes and melons for export. This shift has led to the transformation of landscape features, including the removal of traditional stone walls and terraces, which were integral to both the local ecology and cultural heritage.

Additionally, the increasing use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has impacted the soil health and water quality, contributing to environmental degradation. Urbanization, driven by tourism, has further encroached on agricultural land, resulting in the loss of agricultural spaces and altering the historical landscape. Today, while efforts to promote sustainable agricultural practices and organic farming are being pursued, the remnants of Mallorca's traditional agricultural landscape serve as a reminder of its rich agricultural history and the delicate balance between development and conservation.