Son Cosmet is one of the most important possessions in the municipality of Campos, in the south of Mallorca. This is down to not only its historical and architectural value, but also its flourishing agricultural and livestock farming activity in the past. The origins of Son Cosmet date back to the 14th century, as proven by an original gothic building integrated in Ses Cases. In any case, the promontory where the building is found was already inhabited in prehistoric times. The estate still contains the remains of a stepped tumulus and a burial cave from that time. Arabs and Romans also left their mark on a market garden, a waterwheel and a well, which complete a rich cultural background.
The architectural ensemble of houses, of a plain and rustic grandeur, is the fruit of different interventions over the centuries. Further works were carried out for different reasons, whether for needs inherent to the agricultural or livestock farm itself or to give it greater prestige, always in accordance with the social status of its landlords. The most important of these renovations took place midway through the 18th century.
The whole building clearly represents the traditional construction system in Mallorca. This reflects the perfect bond that the ancestors and old occupants of the estate had with the environment and with the natural resources that it provided. Preserving all of its character, without attacks, its identity has remained unchanged to this day. This is precisely where the rich cultural heritage and value of Son Cosmet lies.
The most characteristic part of the property is the 16th century fortress tower, built when faced with the threat of attacks and raids by the Barbary pirates. At that time, they destroyed the island seas and so a high vantage point was absolutely essential in order to see them coming. In fact, Cabrera Island and practically all of the 120 hectares that comprise the estate can be made out from the tower. It also has a privileged view of the coast, which stands out due to the paradisiacal unspoiled beach of Es Trenc, located seven kilometres from Son Cosmet.
The possessió has belonged to the same family lineage, that of the Lladó de Son Cosmet, since time immemorial. The oldest known landlord is Joanot Lladó, who in 1517 declared to have and possess it by inheritance from his grandfather. Since then it was transferred by trusteeship, always through a male link. It was like this until in 1892 when, due to the childless death of Miquel Mariano Lladó, it went to Cosme María Oliver, son of his sister, Ines, of whom its current owners are descendants.
It is of note that Son Cosmet has five elements protected by municipal and regional regulations: the defensive tower, a reservoir, the Talayotic remains (from prehistoric times), the burial cave and the remains of a waterwheel. Son Cosmet is also a site of Cultural Interest as declared by the Consell Insular de Mallorca, the Island Council of Mallorca. Today, its old walls, restored using ancient techniques, are home to an exclusive boutique hotel, where tradition and innovation harmoniously go hand in hand.
The estate, a site of Agricultural Interest as declared by the Ministry of Agriculture, has successfully combined its historical wealth with high quality tourism. It is furnished with original pieces from the house and other family heirlooms. Thus, visitors can enjoy a real house-museum, which naturally shows many everyday belongings of its former inhabitants.