Es Mercadal gears up for Sant Martí festivities
Pepita Oliver – the town’s herald
Pepita Oliver Lorite, now 89, took centre stage last night as the herald who announced the upcoming 2026 festivities in Es Mercadal. Her appearance was part of an interview‑style proclamation led by Damià Coll, who guided her through memories of a life deeply intertwined with the town.
Early life and family roots
From Morocco to Menorca
Born on June 17 1937 in Morocco, Pepita arrived there because her father, José Oliver Osuna—a soldier from Granada—was stationed in North Africa. Her mother, Pilar Lorite Rodríguez from Jaén, passed away when Pepita was just two years old. A kind Mercadalenca, Maria Galmès Villalonga, met Pepita’s father during a visit to Africa, married him, and became the maternal figure Pepita needed.
Marriage and settling in Mercadal
After moving to Menorca, the family first lived in Maó and then in Ciutadella. Tragedy struck again when Pepita lost both parents—her mother early on and her father in a hand‑grenade accident—leaving her to be raised by her grandmother and an aunt. In 1961 she married Jaume Martí Allès, a native of Ferreries who grew up on the mountain of Toro. The couple met at Sant Bartomeu during Pepita’s first village festival at age 18 and soon decided to make Mercadal their home.
Building Mobles Martí
Humble beginnings
With the idea of opening a store, Pepita and Jaume launched Mobles Martí, the town’s first furniture shop. “It was a town of country people, there was no industry of any caste, and we set up the store because I didn’t know anyone and it was the way to be with people,” Pepita recalled.
In those early days, logistics were a challenge: furniture was moved by wheelbarrow, and for longer deliveries to Maó or Ciutadella they rented a large truck.
A memorable sofa‑delivery story
One anecdote Pepita loves to tell involves their Seat 600. They had to transport a sofa to a customer’s house and, lacking a proper vehicle, placed the sofa on top of the parked car. Mid‑journey, a wild animal appeared and, as Pepita laughed while recounting, “lifted the car up.” A helpful neighbour farmer came to their rescue, allowing them to finish the delivery safely.
The proclamation night
Interview format with Damià Coll
The proclamation unfolded as a relaxed interview. Damià Coll asked questions that let Pepita share not only her personal story but also the history of her family, highlighting how her parents’ backgrounds and her own experiences shaped her connection to Es Mercadal.
Music and first pomade
After the interview, the Banda des Mercadal played the first festive songs, setting a joyful tone. The Town Council then offered the traditional first pomade, marking the official start of the countdown to Sant Martí.
Pepita’s legacy today
Family continues the business
Pepita and Jaume raised two children, Cristóbal and José, who have kept Mobles Martí alive. Pepita still drops by the shop from time to time “to see what’s new,” staying connected to the business she helped build.
Looking forward to 2026 festivities
With Pepita’s proclamation, the excitement for the 2026 Sant Martí celebrations is already building. Her life story—marked by resilience, entrepreneurship, and deep community ties—serves as an inspiring reminder of the spirit that drives Es Mercadal’s festivities.
Conclusion
Pepita Oliver’s journey from a young girl in Morocco to the beloved herald of Es Mercadal showcases how personal history can intertwine with town traditions. Her memories of early struggles, the creation of Mobles Martí, and the joyous moments shared with neighbours continue to resonate as the town prepares for its upcoming celebrations.
Images Credit: www.menorca.info