Traditional Games of the Balearic Islands

Truc (a bluffing card game) is the quintessential traditional game of the Balearic Islands, with distinct versions in Mallorca and Menorca. It is played in pairs, with signals between partners and an indicator card that makes certain cards stronger. Escoba (Sweep), Tute (a trick-taking card game) and Mus (a bluffing card game) are also very popular on the islands.

Truc on the islands

It is related to the Valencian version, but differs in its indicator card, dominant cards and scoring system. We explain it all in how to play Mallorcan Truc.

Mallorca and Menorca

Each island has its own variations, and sometimes each village does too. In Menorca, for example, Truc has its own distinctive vocabulary and customs. It is best to check with everyone at the table before you start.

Other games

• Escoba, played with family.
• Tute, played in bars and casinos.
• Mus, increasingly widespread.

If you want to understand the whole Truc family, take a look at Truc and Truco (a related bluffing card game): are they the same game?