Pacha Ibiza: From Hippy Hideaway to Global Icon

Mar 4, 2024

Photo of Lissy Lübeck

Lissy Lübeck

3 min read

The Birth of Pacha

In 1967, Ricardo and Piti Urgell, the visionary brothers behind Pacha, opened their first venue in Stiges, near Barcelona. Six years later, drawn by the vibrant hippy movement, they set their sights on Ibiza - a haven for artists and bohemians, which was undergoing a hedonistic transformation.

Ricardo and Piti Urgell

The name "Pacha" was born from a whimsical conversation between Ricardo and his wife, reflecting their aspiration to live like kings or 'pachas' as their clubs flourished. And how fitting it is...

Ibiza's Dance Revolution

In 1973, Pacha Ibiza opened its doors, coinciding with the transition from disco to house music. The island became a melting pot for the evolving electronic music scene, influenced by North America and fueled by the UK's acid-house raves. Pacha embraced this eclectic spirit, offering an open-minded and laid-back atmosphere that set it apart.

By the 1990s, Pacha had evolved into a super-club, with a capacity of 3,000 people. The once simple farmhouse underwent multiple transformations, introducing superstar DJs, high-tech dance floors, and cutting-edge lighting and sound systems.

Despite the upgrades, Pacha maintained its commitment to providing a space for people to forget their woes and have a good time, with go-go dancers remaining a staple from the beginning.

The Global Expansion

Pacha's success has led to a global expansion, with venues in cities worldwide, making it a pioneering brand that transcended clubbing norms. Residencies featuring top DJs like David Guetta and Swedish House Mafia solidified Pacha's status as a global nightlife institution.

Solomun on Sunday's @ Pacha

Now, the club play's host to their in-house and day-one staples Pure Pacha and Flower Power, as well as a number of top residencies throughout the summer including CamelPhat on Tuesday's, Marco Carola's Music On on Friday's, and Solomun on Sunday's.

The iconic double-cherry logo became synonymous with the brand, representing its heritage, music, and glamorous approach to clubbing.

In recent years, Pacha has transformed into a lifestyle brand, extending its influence into restaurants, hotels, fashion, and perfumes. The group's diversification includes the upscale Pacha-owned hotel, Destino, also in Ibiza.

Pachacha, Formentera

Casa Pacha, a low-key beach hotel, also opened in 2021 on Ibiza’s sister island of Formentera, showcasing a commitment to preserving the Balearic culture.

Pacha also opened a brand new club also located in Formentera, Pachacha, that boasts incredible DJs throughout the week including a residency from Italian Techno thoroughbred Ilario Alicante.

A Legacy Unmatched

Pacha Ibiza's journey from a small farmhouse in the 1970s to a global phenomenon is a representation of its founders' vision and adaptability. As the brand continues to evolve, embracing new trends and technologies,

Pacha remains a symbol of hedonism, glamour, and musical excellence. With an unwavering commitment to its values, Pacha stands as the unofficial global ambassador for Ibiza clubbing, a jewel in the crown of the worldwide nightlife scene.

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