The rise in farm production in the 11th century led to an increase in trade. Markets and fairs, where not only local products but goods from al-Andalus, North Africa and elsewhere in Europe were bought and sold, were held throughout the land. Major routes for Catalan trade in the western Mediterranean were opened up thanks to a fleet of merchant ships and navigation contracts. The dramatic rise in trade spurred on the growth of the cities and towns inhabited by craftsmen, merchants and dignitaries, as well as by a significant presence of Jewish minorities.