from the
Marchamalo salt flats. The Mar Menor’s earliest human occupation dates back to the
Paleolithic era, with significant evidence at sites such as the
Marchamalo salt flats, dated to the
Copper Age. Under the
Roman Empire, the lagoon—known then as “Palus”—thrived on a
salting industry that produced the prized
garum sauce, and it served as a safe harbor for vessels. Later, Arab rule introduced techniques like , elaborate fishing devices placed in natural channels between the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean. In the thirteenth century, following the conquest of the
Taifa of Murcia by
Alfonso X of Castile, Muslim inhabitants were expelled and Christian settlers moved into the region. Coastal defense against
Barbary pirates became a priority over the subsequent centuries, prompting monarchs like
Charles V and
Philip II to commission watchtowers and fortifications along La Manga and at
Cabo de Palos. Despite these efforts, pirate raids continued, leaving many parts of the shoreline sparsely populated. By the nineteenth century, municipalities such as San Javier and San Pedro del Pinatar formed, setting the stage for twentieth-century developments. Early in that century, health tourism became popular as visitors flocked to the Mar Menor for “novenarios” (a cycle of nine therapeutic baths). Over time, lighthouses were erected, an air-naval base was established at
Santiago de la Ribera, and new hotels and summer residences appeared along the coast. During the Franco era, large-scale investment flowed into La Manga, spearheaded by figures like , who consolidated landholdings and promoted urbanization. While this led to economic growth, the lack of environmental safeguards triggered ecological damage, including reduced salinity levels and habitat loss. Today, conservation and sustainable tourism efforts seek to balance the Mar Menor’s historical legacy with the need to protect its unique ecosystem. == Panoramic view of Mar Menor and La Manga ==