Balearic Islands

Balearic Islands, a group of five islands lying S.E. of Spain in the Mediterranean. Of the three principal members Iviza is nearest to the Spanish coast, being 50 miles distant from Cape Nao. Majorca, the largest of the three, is 43 miles farther to the E., and a channel of 22 miles separates Minorca from Majorca. Formentera is a mere islet to the S. of Iviza, and Cabrera occupies a similar position with regard to Majorca. The name Balearic, dating from Strabo, is derived from the Greek ballo (I throw), the natives having been noted as expert slingers.