Palma de Mallorca It is the capital and largest city of the Balearic Islands of Spain. On the edge of Palma Bay, the city center is a maze of picturesque streets, historic landmarks and a bustling, yacht-filled marina. One thing I find particularly impressive is the eclectic architecture in and around the Old Town. With architectural styles ranging from the Gothic splendor of the 13th century Palma Cathedral to the extraordinary Art Nouveau facades of the 20th century, this is a great reason to visit Palma. My advice is to keep your eyes open and look up as you walk around town. Join me on my architectural walking tour of the most beautiful sights in Palma de Mallorca.
Palma can trace its roots back at least two thousand years, when it was founded as a Roman settlement. Since that time, Palma has been ruled by the Byzantines, Moors and various powers of the Spanish mainland, traces of which can still be seen today. In the early 20th century, the city experienced somewhat of a renaissance. Famous Catalan architects such as Gaudí and Domènech i Montagne created a modernist cityscape that visitors are happy to discover today. Here are the most important historical and architectural sights of Palma:
Palma Cathedral (La Seu) and surroundings
La Sue, perhaps Palma’s most important landmark, is a Gothic masterpiece. Construction began in 1229, and the temple was completed in 1601. Baroque elements were added to the interior of the cathedral in the 17th and 18th centuries.
In the vicinity of La Seu there are other historical attractions such as Palau de la Almudainaa stunning medieval palace that is now the official residence of the King of Spain when he visits Majorca, and palaces such as Fundacio Bartomeu march (which features beautiful exhibitions and classical concerts).
Castel Belver
Above Palma, in the southwest part of the city, stands Castel Belver. This 14th century castle was one of the first (and few remaining) circular castles in Europe. Bellver means “beautiful view” in Catalan, which is a great reason to climb the hill. The views of the city and the bay of Palma are stunning.
Lottier de Palma
A short walk from La Sioux Lottier, the former commercial exchange. Built in Gothic style in the 15th century, this Palma landmark features beautiful towers, vaulted ceilings and elegant spiral columns.
Ajuntament de Palma
His Highness Ajuntament de Palma (Palma City Hall) in Plaça de Cort was built in the 17th century. Its baroque facade and massive wooden roof are absolutely stunning.
Can Corbella
A short distance from Plaça de Cort, at the intersection of Carrer de Sant Domingo and Carrer de Jaume II, you will find a stunning. Can Corbella. The Moorish influence is evident in this neo-Mudejar style building (a style synonymous with Seville’s historic architecture).
Edifici Casasayas & Pension Menorquina
It Casasayas Building and Pension Menorquina Modernist-Art Nouveau style buildings with symmetrical and dynamic elements. Located in Plaça Mercat, these identical, symmetrical buildings are separated by Calle de Santacília. Gaudi’s style is characterized by parabolic windows and wavy shapes.
Fundacio La Caixa
Formerly the Grand Hotel, now the site of a cultural center and café. Fundacio La Caixa is a fine example of modernism and one of Palma’s most popular landmarks. Designed by Domenech i Montaner at the beginning of the 20th century, it is a building rich in Art Nouveau elements. You’ll find it in Plaça Weyler, near Plaça Mercat.
Forn des Teatres
Across the road from Fundacio La Caixa is a beautiful bakery in a chic Art Nouveau style.
Can Forteza Rey and El Águila
Can Forteza Rey? and his neighbor Almesenes El Aguila They are prime examples of modernist-art nouveau, clearly influenced by Gaudí. The whimsical facades with their intricate broken tile mosaics (trencadís), bay windows and small balconies are a pleasure to look at. You will find another gem, Casa de les Mitgesin more detail trencadís motifs further down the road on Carrer Colom.
Palm Yards
As you wander around Palma, take in the beautiful courtyards of old palaces and mansions, some of which are now public institutions, while others are private residences (although you can see the courtyard outside the gates). You will discover magnificent arches and columns, leafy balconies and elegant staircases. Some of the most impressive courtyards in Palma include: Palau March, Can Berga? (Supreme Court), Can Vivot?, Ca’n Catlar de Llorer and: Can Oleza.
Palau de Congresso de Palma
Another tip for those who love modern architecture Palau de Congresso de Palma is a prominent building on the city’s eastern waterfront. Designed by Francisco Mangado, the convention center opened in 2017 and is an extraordinary structure made of concrete, glass and sandstone.
