Date of publication 15/11/2022
12 reasons to visit Palma Cathedral
Palma Cathedral, known locally as La Seu, stands as the fulfillment of a royal promise. According to tradition, King James I vowed to honor Saint Mary after surviving a violent storm at sea. True to his word, he ordered the construction of a cathedral that, at the time, rose directly above the shoreline and was reflected in the waters of the Mediterranean.
As with many great European cathedrals, the construction of Palma Cathedral spanned several centuries. The result is a remarkable architectural landmark that tells the story of different eras, styles, and influences, all carved into stone.
There are countless reasons to visit the Cathedral-Basilica of Santa Maria of Mallorca, but these are some of the most compelling:
1. Admire the Architectural Details of a Gothic Cathedral Unlike Any Other
Construction of Palma Cathedral began in 1229, which is why it is considered a Gothic masterpiece. However, its main façade was completed in 1601 and belongs to the late Renaissance period. Shaped over centuries by history, art, and the changing world around it, the cathedral has developed a distinctive character, with architecture that reflects the different eras through which it has passed.
Covering more than 71,000 square feet, with a floor plan consisting of three naves and 16 chapels, most of them adorned with Baroque altarpieces, Palma Cathedral is remarkable both for its scale and its detail. The building is also home to seven rose windows and a total of 87 windows, filling its vast interior with extraordinary light.
2. Tour the Rooftops and Take in the Views of Palma
The rooftops of Palma Cathedral deserve special recognition. From this elevated vantage point, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city and a unique perspective on one of Mallorca’s most iconic landmarks. The route also leads to remarkable spaces within the cathedral, including the bell tower.
Guided and self-guided rooftop visits are available for guests ages 8 and older. Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Admission also includes access to the interior of Palma Cathedral.
3. Discover Works by Some of the Most Influential Artists of the Last Centuries
The stories of Mallorca Cathedral and Antoni Gaudí became intertwined in 1904, when the celebrated Catalan architect was commissioned to undertake a restoration project that continued until 1914. The cathedral inspired him deeply, and, true to his vision of architecture, he recognized the energy and symbolism that flowed through the historic building.
Gaudí enlarged the high altar, installed an ornate canopy above it, removed the original Gothic altarpiece, introduced new stained-glass windows to enhance the light, and designed a variety of furnishings. Since then, Palma Cathedral has also become a place where visitors can appreciate Gaudí’s artistic legacy and distinctive architectural approach.
4. Explore the Treasures of the Mallorca Cathedral Museum
In addition to collections of paintings, sculptures, goldsmithing, silverwork, and decorative arts, the Museum of the Cathedral-Basilica of Santa Maria of Mallorca houses valuable religious relics. Its architectural spaces are equally impressive. The three principal rooms, the Gothic Chapter House, the Baroque Chapter House, and the Vermells Sacristy, offer a fascinating glimpse into the cathedral’s artistic and historical heritage and are sure to captivate architecture enthusiasts.
5. Witness the Cathedral’s Magical Rose Window Phenomenon
Twice a year, on November 11 and February 2, Palma Cathedral’s famous rose window creates one of the island’s most remarkable spectacles of light and color. On these mornings, sunlight passes through the great rose window and projects its image onto the western wall, directly beneath the smaller rose window, forming a perfect figure eight.
This striking optical effect occurs in the early hours of the day, when the light filtering through the 1,236 panes of colored glass is reflected onto the opposite side of the cathedral. The result is a breathtaking display that draws visitors from around the world.
6. Enjoy a Family-Friendly Experience for All Ages
Palma Cathedral is a place to be enjoyed by everyone. The site is accessible for strollers, making visits easy for families with young children. Throughout the year, the Cathedral-Basilica of Santa Maria of Mallorca also offers educational programs and guided experiences designed to engage younger visitors.
Its gargoyles, shaped like fantastical creatures, and its vibrant stained-glass windows spark children’s imaginations while introducing them to centuries of history and art. For families visiting the island, combining a trip to the cathedral with a stay at a hotel in Palma de Mallorca is a wonderful way to experience one of the city’s most iconic landmarks together.
7. Experience the Contemporary Spiritual Vision of Miquel Barceló
Miquel Barceló’s contribution to Palma Cathedral is impossible to miss. In 2007, the acclaimed Mallorcan artist transformed the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, creating a striking contemporary intervention within the historic Gothic setting. Three large ceramic murals representing the sea, humanity, and the earth, together with stained-glass windows and custom-designed furnishings, reflect his distinctive interpretation of spirituality and the sacred.
While Barceló’s work sparked debate when it was unveiled, it has undoubtedly become one of the cathedral’s most fascinating artistic features. His intervention adds a contemporary dimension to La Seu, enriching its history and reinforcing its status as a living monument where tradition and modern creativity coexist.
8. Admire the Cathedral Façade Reflected in a Pond
The city has grown, and the Cathedral-Basilica of Santa Maria of Mallorca no longer faces the sea directly. Today, however, a majestic lake surrounded by green spaces stretches before it, reflecting the cathedral and adding a dreamlike quality to its exterior.
For those staying at hotels in Mallorca this summer, walking through the area and pausing to take in the view can be a perfect plan. Palma de Mallorca and its cathedral can bring beauty and history to any stroll through the city.
9. Or, as Painter Santiago Rusiñol Wrote, Step Inside to “See Its Soul”
In 1912, Santiago Rusiñol dedicated a book to Mallorca titled L’illa de la calma (The Island of Calm). Reflecting on Mallorca Cathedral and its essence, he wrote: “On the outside you will see its armor, but enter and you will see its soul.”
His words still ring true today. Visiting the interior of Mallorca Cathedral is an essential part of the experience, as its beauty lies not only in its striking architecture but also in the atmosphere, light, and sense of history that fill its vast spaces.
10. Learn the Names of Its Nine Bells
N’Eloi, Na Bàrbara, N’Antònia, Sa Nova, Na Mitja, Na Tèrcia, Na Matines, Na Prima, and Na Picarol. These are the names, from largest to smallest, of the nine bells of the Cathedral-Basilica of Santa Maria of Mallorca.
Beyond having their own names, cathedral bells once formed a language of their own. During the Middle Ages, they played a vital role in communicating with the local population long before modern forms of communication existed. For this reason, Palma Cathedral has always been much more than a place of worship. It has also served as a cultural and social landmark at the heart of the city.
11. Be Impressed by Its Grand Organ
The cathedral’s main organ was installed in 1477 to replace an earlier instrument that had already served the church for more than a century. It features four keyboards with 56 notes each and a 30-note pedalboard.
Music has always played an important role in the life of the Cathedral-Basilica of Santa Maria of Mallorca, a tradition well documented throughout its history. To preserve and celebrate this musical heritage, the cathedral has hosted its annual Organ Festival every season since 2000, attracting performers and music lovers to this remarkable Mallorcan landmark.
12. Visit a Chapel Within the Cathedral
Palma Cathedral holds more surprises than first meet the eye. At the end of the presbytery lies the Royal Chapel, a remarkable space that can be considered a monument in its own right. It was commissioned by King James II in 1306 as his future burial place. Today, the remains of both James II and James III rest here, in mausoleums created by sculptor Frederic Marès and installed in 1950.
The beauty of Palma Cathedral reveals itself layer by layer, from its impressive exterior to the treasures hidden within. Each space reflects the work of different artists, architects, and generations, creating a masterpiece shaped over centuries. Exploring the cathedral is not simply a visit to a historic monument, but a journey through the many stories, styles, and eras that have contributed to its enduring legacy.
MAKE IT REAL NOW