Historic Palau Olivar Returns as Centerpiece of Ciutadella’s Sant Joan Festivities
The young businessman Ignasi Saura Sánchez (30) will host Sant Joan festivities from Palau Olivar, the historic noble residence facing Ciutadella Cathedral. This marks the building’s first use for the “Primer Toc” ceremony since 2012-2013, as officially confirmed by Saura Sánchez and reported by Menorca Info. The appointment follows his selection by the Board of Cashiers and formal proclamation at Ciutadella Town Hall on July 9.
Reviving a Festival Legacy
Saura Sánchez maintains a “very good relationship” with former cashier Simón de Olivar Vivó, whose family owns the 18th-century building. “I think it’s the right place to maximize public visibility of the celebrations,” stated Saura Sánchez, who has begun collaborating with the Olivar family on necessary adaptations for the June festivities. Security operations will benefit from Cathedral Square’s spacious layout, which can accommodate significantly larger crowds than most historic center locations.
Generational Commitment to Tradition
Born into Ciutadella’s old nobility, Saura Sánchez continues a family tradition dating to 1948-49 when his grandfather Ignasi Saura de Sintas first presided over Sant Joan. His cousins Gabriel and Ignasi Saura Miret served in 1976-77, while cousin Borja Saura García held the position most recently in 2022-2023. The cashier role rotates biennially among noble houses, requiring updates to the festival’s Master Plan with each transition.
Modern Entrepreneurship Meets Tradition
Beyond his ceremonial duties, Saura Sánchez brings contemporary business credentials. In 2013, he co-founded Cototo Wifi – the innovative telecommunications provider that solved Ciutadella’s historic district connectivity issues through rooftop antenna networks. This venture recently earned Protagonist in Economic Activities recognition from local newspaper Es Diari.
“With Great Excitement”: New Elements for 2024
Saura Sánchez confirmed plans to introduce redesigned side dishes and traditional clothing during his tenure. “These days will belong to all citizens,” he emphasized, noting preparations are underway to ensure Palau Olivar’s successful return to festival prominence after its 11-year absence from ceremonial activities.
Source: Menorca Info – Palau Olivar’s Return to Sant Joan Festivities
Images Credit: www.menorca.info