Massive Animal Suffering in Palma: Debates on Carriage Rides Reignite

Why this much outrage again now?

In recent days, videos from Palma's old town have flooded the timeline: two carriage horses collapsed within just a few days, right in the midst of cruise passengers and café tables. I was briefly on the Passeig yesterday and asked the tourists — most knew the stories, some were stunned, others looked away in silence. The images are hard; they affect everyone.

The voices of animal welfare activists

Several animal protection groups, including organizations from Germany, are now calling for a definitive end to the traditional carriage rides in Palma. In clear terms, they describe a systemic problem: heat, noise, and stop-and-go traffic take a heavy toll on the animals. A well-known German organization stated in a press release that they will no longer stand by while profit is made at the cost of the horses.

What does the city say?

The city hall reacted promptly: the animal welfare department has announced an extraordinary investigation. Normally inspections occur every 15 days, according to a spokesperson — now the cases should be thoroughly examined. It was also emphasized that action will be taken in cases of proven neglect. Whether the theater around regulations and enforcement is enough to quiet the debate remains open.

Between tradition and responsibility

The carriages stand not far from the cathedral — a photo opportunity for tourists, a business model for operators. At the same time, cases like this show how quickly the romantic idea can turn into suffering. A city council resolution from 2022 envisaged a ban that should have come into force in 2024 — so far nothing concrete has happened. Small municipalities like Alcúdia have meanwhile introduced electric wagons on a trial basis. This shows that alternatives exist.

Reactions from politics and society

The animal welfare party Pacma calls for an immediate suspension of carriage operations and is considering legal steps. On social networks, there is a mix of outrage, confusion, and calls for quick solutions. Some locals warn that a ban would affect people who earn their living with the carriages. Transitional models and retraining programs are also being discussed.

Our impression on the ground

What remains is an uneasy feeling. The heat around midday, the narrow cobblestones, the waiting cruise groups — all this makes clear that it's not just about isolated incidents, but about a system that needs to be rethought. I hope the investigation brings clarity — and it should be so that the animals are truly protected, without leaving people in the city out in the cold.

In short: Two collapsed horses have reignited the discussion. Animal welfare activists are calling for a ban, the city hall is investigating, and alternatives like electric carriages are already under discussion.