On the shores of the Bay of Alcúdia stands a space where art and the Mediterranean landscape converge: the Yannick and Ben Jakober Foundation and the Sa Bassa Blanca Museum. This place offers much more than a conventional visit; here, sculptures and gardens coexist with the natural environment, creating an open-air art route that offers another perspective on Majorca.

In this article, you will find the history and vision of the foundation, details about the museum's architecture and its collections, a tour of the gardens and sculptures, and practical tips for planning your visit. If you want to discover how art transforms the landscape and plan your own cultural route by the sea, read on.

The history and vision of the Yannick and Ben Jakober Foundation

The Yannick and Ben Jakober Foundation was established in 1993, driven by its founders' commitment to protecting historical heritage and promoting art. The main mission of this non-profit organisation is the conservation, restoration, and dissemination of works ranging from classical painting to contemporary art creations. Yannick Vu, a renowned painter and sculptor, brings a cosmopolitan sensibility forged between Europe and Asia, while Ben Jakober, an entrepreneur and sculptor, adds a pluralistic vision and a drive for collecting and artistic patronage to the foundation. Through their experience and careers, they have turned the foundation into a cultural benchmark, projecting their interest in education and art beyond the island's borders.

From its inception, the foundation has been committed to promoting educational activities, workshops, and scholarships aimed at bringing art closer to people of all ages, with a special focus on children. Its work in restoring artworks, many of which were rescued from deterioration, is particularly noteworthy, restoring their value and history.

Yannick Vu, the daughter of artists, has exhibited internationally, and her work includes painting, sculpture, and installations. Ben Jakober, born in Vienna and raised in France, developed his career between management and art, channelling these experiences into the foundation. Together, they have fostered collaborations with international institutions and artists, encouraging cultural exchange and creative diversity. The Yannick and Ben Jakober Foundation is characterised by its cross-disciplinary approach, integrating heritage conservation, education, and contemporary creation, making it a pioneering model within the Balearic and national context.

The Sa Bassa Blanca Museum: a space between art and nature

The Sa Bassa Blanca Museum is a unique landmark in Majorca's museum scene, not only for the quality and diversity of its collections but also for the fusion of architecture, art, and the natural environment. Designed by the Egyptian architect Hassan Fathy, the main building features white walls, Hispano-Moorish inspired details, and complete integration with the topography, a result of a design that utilises both the terrain's contours and natural light. Part of the building is underground, which provides energy efficiency and an ideal environment for the conservation of the works without altering the surrounding landscape.

Inside the museum, the "Nins" collection captivates with its historical and artistic character: more than 150 portraits of European noble children from the 16th to the 19th centuries, selected for both their pictorial value and their social and iconographic relevance. This journey invites the visitor to reflect on childhood, artistic representation, and the evolution of identity in European history. Alongside this collection, the "Sokrates" room surprises with a unique installation: a skeleton of a woolly rhinoceros, a fossil from the Ice Age, surrounded by thousands of Swarovski crystals. The combination of science, ancient art, and contemporary art creates a multi-sensory experience far removed from conventional museum tradition.

Furthermore, the museum houses a remarkable selection of contemporary art, with works by national and international artists presented in temporary exhibitions, creating dialogues between different disciplines and eras.

The connection with the environment is inseparable: the rooms open to views of the protected landscape, and a significant part of the collection extends outdoors, anticipating the next section of the tour through the gardens.

The gardens of Sa Bassa Blanca: sculptures and biodiversity

The true heart of Sa Bassa Blanca is found outdoors. The gardens of the Yannick and Ben Jakober Foundation are an exhibition space in themselves, where landscaping and sculpture intertwine to create an immersive experience. The outdoor tour is designed for the visitor to wander along winding paths, discovering new pieces and perspectives at every turn. Here, nature is an active component that dialogues with each work. The design includes a medieval-style Rose Garden, which is home to more than a hundred varieties of old and English roses, and different areas where native Mediterranean vegetation is combined with monumental sculptures.

But the main attraction of these gardens is the Sculpture Park, a granite zoo that fascinates visitors of all ages. Yannick Vu and Ben Jakober are the creators of these imposing animal sculptures, inspired by works from different cultures and historical periods. An elephant, a hippopotamus, and a rhinoceros, among other large-scale figures, are strategically placed along an axis that descends towards the sea. Their placement is not random; each piece interacts with the landscape, creating silhouettes that change with the light and shadows of the day. This sculptural ensemble establishes a symbolic bridge with archaic and totemic forms, inviting reflection on the relationship between humans and the animal kingdom.

The integration of art and botany is total. The plant elements frame, conceal, and reveal the sculptures, creating a rhythm in the journey. Native flora, such as pines, olive trees, and oaks, is respected and enhanced. The foundation's commitment to the environment is evident in the sustainable management of this space, which has been declared a Biological Reserve. Walking through the gardens of Sa Bassa Blanca is, therefore, a dual exploration: an artistic discovery and a direct connection with the natural wealth of the Majorcan coast.

The visit experience: Practical tips

Planning a visit to the Yannick and Ben Jakober Foundation and touring the gardens of Sa Bassa Blanca is key to enjoying everything this unique space has to offer. Here is all the information and recommendations to make the most of your day:

How to get to Sa Bassa Blanca?

• Recommended transport: The most convenient way to get there is by private car, as public transport does not reach the estate.
• Location: Camí del Coll Baix, Alcúdia. The access is via rural roads and, in its final stretch, a forest track that crosses a natural landscape before reaching the main entrance.

Practical information for organising your visit

• Duration of the visit: It is recommended to dedicate at least half a day (between 3 and 4 hours) to leisurely explore the gardens, the sculptures in the outdoor park, and enjoy the surroundings.
• Opening hours: Hours may vary depending on the season; it is essential to check the official website before you go.
• Advance booking: It is advisable to book in advance, especially during high season or for special activities, as places may be limited.
• Suitable footwear: It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking on dirt and gravel paths, and some areas may be sloped.

Complementary activities and services

• Guided tours: The foundation offers specialised guided tours, where you will discover interesting facts about the sculptures, the botanical garden, and the artistic approach of the space.
• Workshops and educational activities: Activities for families and children's workshops are organised, making the experience enriching for all ages.
• Cultural events: It is common for there to be concerts, conferences, or one-off cultural proposals. Check the updated schedule so you don't miss anything special.
• Cafeteria and rest area: There is a cafeteria with an outdoor area where you can take a break and enjoy a refreshment surrounded by nature and artistic works.

Relax after a day of art and nature

At Hotels VIVA, located in privileged enclaves of Majorca, we have designed every detail to ensure your rest is as memorable as your cultural discoveries. Very close to the Sa Bassa Blanca art route, we offer you the perfect counterpoint of relaxation and service.

Imagine returning to one of our spacious and bright rooms, designed to offer you maximum comfort. You can unwind with a swim in our spectacular pools or recharge in our restaurants, where local gastronomy takes centre stage. For those seeking extra wellness, our hotels with spas offer treatments to disconnect body and mind. We have options for everyone, from adults-only hotels that guarantee tranquillity, to family resorts with activities for the little ones. At Hotels VIVA, we are committed to making your stay live up to the beauty of the island.

Complete your cultural getaway with a stay that combines comfort, quality, and an ideal location. Book your room at Hotels VIVA and experience Majorca as a complete experience.