An abandoned colossus in the heart of Palma
In the bustling urban landscape of Palma, where past and present intertwine, stands an imposing concrete and glass building that has witnessed a saga of controversies, litigation and revenge. This abandoned structure, known as the ‘mamotreto’ of Palma, has become a symbol of the power struggles, vested interests and uncertain destiny that has marked its history.
The dream of an avant-garde architect
In the 1960s, renowned architect Josep Ferragut, driven by his passion for heritage conservation and his opposition to unbridled urban development, conceived the Gesa building as a beacon of modernity and functionality. This building, inaugurated in 1977, was intended to represent the technological advances and innovative spirit of the electric company.
The decline of an icon
Almost three decades later, Gesa abandoned its offices in the historic tower, beginning an inexorable path towards degradation. In 2005, Núñez y Navarro, a powerful Catalan construction company, acquired the land where the building was located with the intention of demolishing it and building 200 luxurious apartments.
The unexpected protection
However, Núñez and Navarro’s plans were frustrated when the Consell Insular de Mallorca declared the Gesa building as Listed Property, preventing its demolition. This decision, promoted by a coalition of political parties, was a hard blow for the construction company and sparked a legal battle.
Revenge and quarrels
In a surprising turn, Núñez y Navarro filed a complaint against the insular leadership of UM, accusing them of corruption in the allocation of public land. This complaint was interpreted by many as revenge for the protection of the Gesa building.
The Supreme Court issues a ruling
The legal battle between Núñez and Navarro and Endesa, the company that owns the building, reached the Supreme Court. In 2014, the high court ruled in favor of Endesa, forcing Núñez and Navarro to return the 85.2 million euros they had paid for the building.
An uncertain future
Since then, the Gesa building has continued to deteriorate, trapped in legal and political limbo. Both the PP and the PSOE have proposed different plans for their future, but none have come to fruition.
The PP project: a cultural center
Currently, the PP, with the support of Vox, proposes acquiring the building for 25 million euros and converting it into a cultural center. The objective is to promote Palma’s candidacy as European Capital of Culture in 2032.
Opposition criticism
The opposition has expressed concern about the project, arguing that it will mortgage the city for years and become a mere tourist attraction. They have also criticized the lack of investment in projects that improve the lives of residents.
A legacy of controversy
The Gesa de Palma building is a testament to the complex forces that have shaped the city. Its history is marked by ambition, greed, politics and the fight for heritage. While its future remains uncertain, Palma’s ‘mamotreto’ will continue to be a reminder of the battles that have defined its past.
