Europe
Hidden treasures within the cobblestone streets of Palma de Mallorca
Ema Bakalova
Jun 1, 2023
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While the allure of its beaches and mountaints is undeniable, the hidden treasures within the cobblestone streets of Old Town Palma is what truly captured my attention and stole my heart. During the initial phases of our trip planning, the decision came down to either Ibiza or Mallorca, but the consensus was clear: "For a more romantic trip, opt for Mallorca; whereas if you're in the mood for vibrant parties, Ibiza is the place!" Clearly, we chose Mallorca.
Old Town Palma
We rented an Airbnb right in the center of Old Town Palma, walking distance from the main city center in a beautiful neighborhood. Palma felt a bit different than Deiá, since it was a larger, busier and had more of a vibrant urban character. While it has its own charm with historic sites, a stunning cathedral, and a harbor, the landscape is more urbanized and less dominated by nature.
The narrow lanes, filled with golden buildings, intricate balconies, and vibrant bougainvillaea, had a distinct old-fashioned charm. The sidewalks are tiny (often time people and cars share the same road), and you can easily get lost between the winding streets. Deiá on the other hand, attracts a more niche crowd that is quieter and more laid back, perhaps for someone that is seeking tranquility and a deep connection to nature and art.
While I can't speak from personal experience regarding Ibiza (yet), I can wholeheartedly confirm that the portrayal of Mallorca's romantic atmosphere was absolutely accurate.
Running our way through the city
Upon our arrival on the first day, we kept things relatively low-key. We found the local grocery store and picked up food for the week. We managed to take a light walk through our neighborhood and down to the city center of Palma to get a feel for our surroundings.
It was gorgeous, but we decided to save most of the real exploring for the next day. We arrived in the evening so the day was already coming to an end.
On our first morning in Mallorca, we felt like going for a run to explore the city. We chose a route that led us through the city center, along the waterfront, and through palm-lined streets before heading back. Running (as well as walking) is one of the best and quickest ways to get to know a city, while covering some serious miles and getting a good workout in. Palma is small enough, making it easy to explore by foot and cover a good amount of ground on a run. La Seu Cathedral stood out against the sky, a stunning sight we quickly took in as we jogged by. The plan was to return to the Cathedral later than day.
Old and new
What stood out to me in Old Town Palma was how the old and the new elements of the city's development seamlessly coexisted and contrasted with one another. Antique shops, artisan boutiques, and contemporary art galleries were built comfortably alongside centuries-old residences. The juxtaposition of history and modernity creates an atmosphere that is both nostalgic, yet lively, showcasing the evolution of Palma's culture in a tangible way.
From my experience, the locals in Old Town Palma were very warm, something I can assume is a reflection of the close-knit community they have built in this historic center. During the trip, I learned that many of the locals had been rooted there for generations, and had established profound connections to their surroundings over the years. Walking through the streets, you can tell that the buildings and streets are old, but impeccably maintained, a testament to the importance of preserving the city's authentic charm.
From black on black to a life in colour
The city center is filled with shops– I'm assuming Mallorca thrives during tourist season when the island is at its busiest. We did some window shopping, walked into tiny boutiques, and observed the details of the streets. The buildings were lined with bright colors, from the facades to the signage– even the clothing inside was colorful. It was a refreshing change from my usual all-black New York City attire.
Siesta
Many shops and businesses close for siesta in the early afternoon (usually from around 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM), and generally most shops close very early.
Discovering La Seu Cathedral
La Seu Cathedral, is a stunning Gothic masterpiece in the center of Malloca, that completely dominates the skyline. The intricate details and colossal rose window that you see from the distance are just a glimpse into how skilled the craftsmanship of past generations were.
The charm of the area extends beyond the cathedral as well. The narrow streets are full of beautiful buildings showcasing different architectural styles, from graceful Gothic detailing to intricate Renaissance designs. The cathedral seems to fit in just right, with its materiality and colors blending seamlessly with the surroundings. Even the green palm trees seem to perfectly complement the water surrounding the cathedral.
A symbol of the skyline
I still cannot decide whether the cathedral is more spectacular from up close or from far away, but we walked to the other side of the pond, where we could observe it from the distance. From a far the cathedral has a commanding presence, while still managing to gracefully integrate into the surrounding environment. The intricate details, distinct and captivating up close, blend together to create an impressive overall silhouette.
Gaudi focused on revitalizing the exterior, adding intricate details, sculptures, and a more ornate design to the existing gothic architectural expression. However, due to disagreements with the project's direction and some funding issues, Gaudí's involvement was eventually limited and he didn't complete the full extent of his intended renovations. Overall, while Gaudí's influence is notable in some parts of La Seu Cathedral, the majority of its design remains mainly rooted in gothic architecture, showcasing a blend of various styles over centuries of construction and renovation.
How much time do you need to explore Mallorca?
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