An oven with centuries of history
In the old section of siftWhere the street changed its name from Saint Christ to Butcher shopFuel Bakery is located. The history of this institution dates back to 1652Which makes it one of the oldest ovens in the city. For 373 years, I have witnessed how Palma has radically changed, and survived EpidemicsAnd periods of scarcity, bandits, social conflicts and even the bomb during Civil war Which fortunately did not explode. His career made him a silent witness to much of the city’s history.
Bread is a local tradition and famous
It is made inside the oven Brown and white breadin different sizes and shapes. But it stands out Brown breadwhich many consider Better than Palma. In addition, the bakery offers… Sweets and pastries: EnsaymadasCroissants and empanadas, and among its specialties is “toasted cream quarters.” This traditional presentation has been the key to preservation Loyalty of neighbors For generations.
Glorious past
Originally known as Forn den gari or den juriOver time, the furnace changed its name to “Fuel” – although this nickname does not belong to Current owner’s family. Over time, the bakery ceased to be part of the system Combined ovens To become Independent trade. in 1986The current owner’s father took over the business and everything around it Year 2000 The family managed to get it, leaving behind the rent money.
A symbolic institution in danger
The current manager of the bakery, with 53 years oldplan to keep it in the oven just until you’re done Retirement. There will be no caliphs after that: nonexistence Generational change It jeopardizes the survival of the trade that many describe as The living heritage of Palma. This fear is not isolated: according to the data cited by the owner himself every year Close about 600 bakeries or Traditional ovens in Spain.
The context of the massive closure of traditional ovens
condition Fuel Bakery It’s not isolated. all over the country, Traditional ovens They fight against several factors: Industrial baking competitionthe High operating coststhe Urban speculation And difficult to find New bakers Ready to keep working. The continued closure of these companies threatens to erase a lot of information Culinary and social memory From many cities.
What does it mean to lose a historic kiln?
- Loss of traditional knowledge Artisan bread making.
- Reduce local supply Of high quality bread with Typical varieties Area.
- Companies disappear Of heritage and sentimental value.
The final dilemma: imitation or disappearance
Fuel Bakery It represents what may be the end of an era. for him charmfor him date And to him bread They are not sufficient to ensure continuity if there are no interested parties who bear responsibility for maintaining them. The question is also cultural: What value do we place on preserving cultural heritage? Traditions? It’s worth it Maintain these ovens As part of Local heritage?