The island’s public administration concluded its institutional visit with an event exploring the shared roots between Mallorca and California through the historical figure of Juníper Serra — from his legacy to its interpretation in today’s technological era.
The conference “Mallorca & California: A Connection Beyond History” took place this Wednesday in San Francisco, organised to mark the 10th anniversary of Serra’s canonisation and with the objective of reexamining and reframing his legacy as a key figure for both Mallorca and the United States.
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Llorenç Galmés, head of the institution, highlighted “the importance of valuing a shared heritage that has linked Mallorca and California for more than two centuries and which can now be viewed through a contemporary lens rooted in respect, dialogue, and cooperation.”
Held at The Merchants Exchange Club, the event began with an introduction by Father Barbato, who contextualised Serra’s historical relevance in the US.
A subsequent panel discussion brought together five speakers from both California and Mallorca. Moderated by David Bolton, director of the California Missions Foundation, the debate included contributions from historian and Indigenous descendant Rubén Mendoza; GSBIT president Margarita Martínez; Casa Serra Foundation president Catalina Font; and architect and promoter of the Camino de California, Salvatore Caruso.
The session also featured a preview of the documentary Junípero Serra, made in Spain, produced by Matas Films in collaboration with the island administration and scheduled for release in the first half of 2026.
An emblematic figure with global impact
Speakers emphasized Serra’s international significance and the importance of understanding his legacy in full, highlighting his cultural, humanistic, and historical dimensions.
They noted that although Serra traveled to America with evangelizing intentions, his actions must be understood in the context of 18th-century Indigenous realities. According to the analysis presented, Serra supported the preservation of cultures, languages, and ways of life, and on many occasions risked his own safety to defend Indigenous people from colonial violence.
A contemporary link grounded in innovation
The conference also underscored the technological dimension of the relationship between Mallorca and California, reinforcing the message developed during the previous day’s meetings in Silicon Valley with key innovation stakeholders.
GSBIT president Margarita Martínez offered a clear perspective on Mallorca’s potential as a Mediterranean innovation hub, emphasizing the strengthening business ecosystem, talent generation, and the island’s capacity to build bridges with technology environments like California’s.
Parallels were drawn between Serra’s cultural contributions in the 18th century and Mallorca’s modern commitment to maintaining those ties through digitalization, creativity, and innovation. The event advocated for technology as a driver of economic diversification, complementing established strategic sectors such as responsible tourism.