13 December 2024
By Tiernan A. O´Rourke
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ABOUT PALMA DE MALLORCA
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PALMA DE MALLORCA
Palma de Mallorca: A Thriving Historic City
Palma de Mallorca is the capital of the Balearic Islands and the main city of Mallorca. This historic and vibrant city is home to large mansions, magnificent Gothic structures, and a rich history that spans from Roman times to its medieval Moorish past. The city´s most iconic landmark, the Gothic Cathedral, towers over the Old Town and provides a stunning view of the harbor and city, especially when viewed from the sea. Palma´s history includes Roman roots, Moorish influence, and a great economic rise in the 15th century as the main port between Europe and Africa. Today, Palma is also the primary transport hub for exploring the rest of Mallorca.
Cathedral of La Seu: The Heart of Palma
The Cathedral is not just an architectural marvel, it’s also a spiritual center and a symbol of Palma´s historical evolution.
Key Features:
- Location: It faces the waterfront and serves as the gateway to Old Town.
- Architecture: Gothic in style, dating back to the 14th-16th centuries.
- Interior Design: Renowned for features created by Antoni Gaudí, who transformed its interior with a modern touch. Gaudí´s design floods the cathedral with light, thanks to the large stained-glass windows.
- It has one of the world´s widest and tallest naves.
- Museum: The Cathedral Museum is also a must-see.
Almudaina Palace: A Historic Fortress
The Almudaina is a key landmark that highlights Palma’s cultural and political history.
Highlights:
- Historical Significance: Initially the residence of the Muslim Walis during the Caliphate (11th-13th centuries), later becoming the palace of King James II in the 14th century.
- Architecture: An excellent example of civic Gothic architecture.
- Notable Feature: The medieval bronze sculpture of the Angel Gabriel at the top of one of its towers.
- Current Use: Official residence of the Spanish Royal Family in Mallorca and headquarters for the Balearic Military High Command.
- Interiors: Explore a series of elegant Gothic and Renaissance halls.
Exploring the Old Town
Palma´s Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets and historic sites. Here are some must-visit locations:
Key Landmarks:
- Banys Arabs (Arab Baths): A reminder of Palma´s Moorish past, dating back to the 10th century.
- Mallorcan Museum: Housed in a 1634 mansion, showcasing artifacts from prehistoric, Roman, Moorish, and medieval times.
- St. Francis Church: Palma´s best medieval church, dating back to the 13th century, with its famous Gothic cloister and Plateresque portal.
- St. Eulalia Church: One of the oldest Gothic churches in Palma.
- City Hall (Ayuntamiento): Known for its Palma Baroque style, housing portraits of Mallorca's illustrious figures.
- Poble Espanyol (Spanish Village): A living museum that replicates Spain´s architectural and cultural heritage with over 100 artistic monuments.
The Old Town is a history, art, and architecture treasure trove.
Bellver Castle: A Unique Gothic Military Monument
Bellver Castle is a unique site that combines historical significance with breathtaking views.
Key Features:
- Location: Overlooking Palma with stunning views of the city and the sea.
- Architecture: Gothic military style with a unique circular ground plan.
- Historical Use: It was originally the summer residence of the Mallorcan monarchy, later serving as a prison.
- View: The castle´s name, Bellver, means “beautiful view,” and it offers one of the best panoramic views of Palma and its surroundings.
Shopping and Local Artisan Goods in Palma
- Leather Goods and Footwear: High-quality items made in Inca, a town known for its leather factories.
- Handicrafts and Antiques: Many shops sell locally crafted goods like Mallorcan ceramics, pearls, hand-blown glass, and pottery.
- Souvenirs and Gifts: Palma is an excellent place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs that reflect the island´s rich cultural heritage.
Exploring Palma´s shops is a great way to take home a piece of the island´s craftsmanship and artistry.
Culinary Delights: A Taste of Palma de Mallorca
Palma is renowned for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Here are some must-try local dishes:
Key Dishes:
- Sopas Mallorquinas: Traditional Mallorcan soup.
- Frito Mallorquin: A local fried dish with vegetables and meat.
- Caldereta de Langosta: Lobster stew.
- Ensaimada: A fluffy, sweet bun, famous across the island.
- Rubiols: Mallorcan pastries.
- Fish Croquettes: A flavorful seafood snack.
- Spicy Red Sausage Spread: A tasty, local condiment.
- Ice Cream with Almonds: A refreshing, nutty treat.
Beverages:
- Wines, Cava, and Vermouth: Mallorca has a growing wine culture, with excellent local options. Explore the wine regions of Binissalem, a high-altitude area, and Pla I Llevant, a lower-lying region which have the Denomination of Origin.
Palma´s food scene offers a rich and diverse selection, perfect for foodie lovers looking to explore authentic Mallorcan flavors.
Palma de Mallorca is a city filled with history, culture, and modern vibrancy. From the astonishing Gothic Cathedral to the ancient Almudaina Palace, the maze of historical streets in the Old Town, and the breathtaking Bellver Castle, Palma is a city of contrasts, preserving its rich past while embracing the modern world.
Population: 424,837 inhabitants (2021)
We have a wide selection of hand-picked Tours to Palma de Mallorca & Historic or Modern Hotels in Palma de Mallorca. Below you will find the full list of Palma de Mallorca Tours & Hotels
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