How did the arrival of Castilian-speaking Spaniards affect the local culture in Mallorca?

The arrival of Castilian-speaking Spaniards in Mallorca, particularly following the conquest by Jaume I of Aragon in 1229, significantly influenced the local culture in various ways. Initially, the island was predominantly influenced by the Catalan language and culture, given its integration into the Crown of Aragon. The Castilian-speaking settlers, particularly during the later phases of Spanish unification and the centralized policies of the Spanish Crown, began promoting the use of Castilian Spanish over Catalan.

This led to a gradual shift in linguistic dynamics; while Catalan remained the dominant language for many centuries, the increasing pressure to adopt Castilian resulted in bilingualism in the region. Additionally, the cultural landscape of Mallorca began incorporating more Castilian elements, particularly in literature, education, and governance. The religious and architectural influences also evolved, with the introduction of broader Spanish styles that merged with local traditions. Over time, the impact was manifested in social structures, as Castilian identity increasingly blended with local customs, creating a unique Mallorcan culture that reflects both its Catalan roots and Castilian influences.

This cultural syncretism continues to be part of Mallorca's identity today, where both languages coexist and contribute to the island's rich heritage.