La Sabina

Author Ben Dunwell’s book “Pine Tree Island” (though “Fine Me Island” seems more fitting when navigating the local roundabouts) described it best: the ubiquitous pine tree is found everywhere on the Islas Pitiusas, thereby overshadowing its former grande dame: the sacred Sabina tree.

As we won’t delve into the mystical and spiritual qualities attributed to this majestic tree here — there are other sources for that — we’ll explore its intrinsic qualities as a construction element and its impact on, and importance for, the design aesthetic of the beloved fincas.

Hard, strong, durable, versatile — these ancient trees, transformed into beams, made for the most robust support system in traditional Ibicencan architecture. The beams primarily served as main supports for constructing ceilings and porches. Additionally, they also functioned as lintels for window and door openings — yes, those 1.90 m high door lintels that might greet your forehead after a couple of glasses of red in Can Suldat.

There’s an intrinsic engineering intelligence in how the Ibicencas utilized these Sabina beams to span each room’s width. Usually, a large beam covers the biggest span, supporting a second layer of smaller beams midway, which in turn uphold the small leftover wooden tegels, filling in the remaining gaps before the seaweed is added on top.

This simple yet ingenious use of materials maximizes the Sabina’s strength with minimal resource consumption. In his book “Le Palais Paysan,” architect Philip Rottier compares this to a 40% reduction in material use compared to modern industrial production processes — a noteworthy point of thought in today’s sustainability dialogue. Less does sometimes equal more.

Ironically, while contemporary design guidelines suggest keeping ceilings light and airy for a more expansive feel, traditional fincas (in many parts, such as the kitchen, where the beams are blackened by fire smoke) are characterized by the aforementioned heavy wooden ceiling layout. This purely technical construction element, initially chosen for its availability and durability, suddenly becomes the single most defining and beautiful decorative element in a Spartan interior.

As a result, stepping into a traditional Ibicencan farmhouse feels comforting, calming, and protective — almost like a warm womb. Perfect for sipping a glass of whisky by the fireplace on these cold January days.

Salud.

Photo & Credits: Francis Dimmers — Can Basso