The pepper that was saved from extinction

Pebre bord is a distinctive variety of paprika that is grown in Mallorca.

It was once cultivated widely on the island, reaching a peak at the end of the nineteenth century. There was in fact a Felanitx fair for the ‘red pepper’ as long ago as 1871.

Over the following decades it went into decline. This was mainly because of competition from imports. This decline was such that it was on the point of being lost for good. But in 2009 a group of producers launched a campaign for its revival, an aspect of which is the Felanitx fair dedicated to it.

Also known as tap de cortí, it is an ingredient for the spicy version of sobrassada, so the fair will naturally highlight a good deal of local cuisine featuring both. There is a Ruta Gastro of bars and restaurants, and the fair’s other a