The best historical and artistic routes on the island

Historical route through the old town of Palma

The old town of Palma is the result of more than a thousand years of history.

The current city sits on the ancient Madina Mayurqa, founded during Muslim domination (10th–13th centuries). After the Christian conquest in 1229, Palma became an important city of the Kingdom of Mallorca.

Notable historical context:

• The Cathedral of Mallorca (La Seu) was built in the 13th century on top of the old main mosque, symbolizing the change of power and religion. Its location next to the sea makes it one of the most unique Gothic cathedrals in Europe.
• The Almudaina Palace was originally an Islamic fortress, which was later adapted as a Christian royal residence.
• The Jewish quarter (Call Major) reflects the important medieval Jewish community, active in commerce, science and medicine until their expulsion in the 15th century.
• The Mallorcan patios are the heritage of the nobility and the bourgeoisie, and show the architectural evolution of Palma between the 16th and 19th centuries.

This route allows us to understand the coexistence and succession of cultures in the capital of the island.

Talayotic route: the origin of Mallorca

Before the arrival of Romans and Muslims, Mallorca was already inhabited.

The Talayotic culture developed approximately between 1000 BC. and 123 BC, and is exclusive to the Balearic Islands.

What the talayots represent:

• They were large stone constructions
• Possibly they had defensive, social or ceremonial functions
• They were the center of prehistoric settlements

Key deposits:

• Capocorb Vell is one of the best preserved Talayotic complexes in the Mediterranean.
• Ses Païsses (Artà) allows you to see the circular structure of a fortified town.
• Son Fornés (Montuïri) stands out for its archaeological value and its interpretation center.

This route connects directly with the oldest origins of the island.

Roman route: the footprint of Pollentia

In the year 123 BC, the Romans conquered Mallorca and founded the city of Pollentia, which became the main urban center of the island for centuries.

Relevant historical elements:

• The forum was the political, religious and social center of the city.
• Roman homes show the standard of living and urban organization.
• The Roman theater is an example of the value of leisure and culture in Roman society.

The subsequent construction of medieval Alcúdia on Pollentia reflects the historical continuity of the place.

Route of monasteries and historical sanctuaries

The monasteries and sanctuaries of Mallorca have been centers of spirituality, education and refuge for centuries. Many are located in high places, which also gave them a defensive and symbolic character.

Historical context:

• The Monastery of Lluc was consolidated as a religious center after the legendary discovery of the Virgin in the 13th century.
• The Sanctuary of Cura, in Puig de Randa, is linked to Ramon Llull, one of the most important intellectual figures of the Mallorcan Middle Ages.
• The Monastery of La Real was founded by Cistercian monks and had great agricultural and cultural importance.

These routes combine history, sacred art and landscape.

Modernist and artistic route in Palma

At the end of the 19th century, Mallorca experienced a period of economic growth that was reflected in its architecture. The bourgeoisie promoted modernism, inspired by European currents.

Historical keys:

• The Gran Hotel was the first luxury hotel in Mallorca and a symbol of modernity.
• Local architects adapted Catalan modernism to Mediterranean materials and styles.
• Many buildings in the center of Palma reflect this moment of cultural openness.

This route shows a more urban and cosmopolitan Mallorca.

Prominent figures and cultural spaces linked to great artists

Mallorca has been home and inspiration for numerous creators. Some of them left such a deep mark that today it is possible to visit museums, houses and foundations dedicated to their life and work, turning the island into an authentic artistic route.

• Joan Miró lived and worked in Palma for much of his life.
  Today you can visit the Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró a Mallorca, which preserves his workshop, sculptures, paintings and an important archive. The space allows you to get up close and personal with the artist's creative process and his relationship with the island.
• Robert Graves turned Deià into an international cultural meeting point during the 20th century.
  His former house is today the Robert Graves House Museum (Ca N’Alluny), a space dedicated to his literary work and the artistic community that formed around him.
• Blai Bonet, one of the most important Mallorcan writers of the 20th century, reflected the identity, landscape and spirituality of the island in his work.
  In Santanyí you can visit the Casa Blai Bonet, converted into a cultural and literary, where exhibitions, activities and meetings linked to contemporary creation are organized.

These spaces allow you to discover Mallorca from an artistic and human perspective, connecting the landscape with the people who transformed it into art and literature.

Historical route through charming towns

Mallorca not only shines for its beaches, but also for its historic towns, which preserve centuries of architecture, traditions and local culture.

Walking through them is like taking a trip back in time: each street, square and building tells a story.

Valldemossa

• History and art: This picturesque town developed around the Cartuja de Valldemossa, a former royal palace converted into Carthusian monastery in the 14th century.
  The charterhouse is famous for having hosted Frédéric Chopin and George Sand during the winter of 1838-1839, who left a cultural and literary mark that continues to attract visitors.
  
  
• What to visit: The charterhouse, its cloister and gardens, the old monastery pharmacy, and the local craft museums.
  
  
• Recommendation: Stroll through its cobbled streets and typical patios, full of flowers and small art galleries.

Deià

• History and art: Known as a refuge for international artists and writers, especially in the 20th century, Deià maintains a bohemian and cultural atmosphere.
  Robert Graves lived here, and his house is today a literary museum.
  
  
• What to visit: Robert Graves House Museum, the parish church of Sant Joan Baptista, and small art galleries and craft workshops.
  
  
• Recommendation: Walk along the trails near the coast to appreciate how the landscape inspired numerous artists.

Sóller

• History and architecture: Sóller stands out for its modernist architecture linked to the economic boom of citrus fruits between the 19th and 20th centuries.
  The town preserves its historic tram, which connects with the port, and modernist buildings such as the Church of Sant Bartomeu.
  
  
• What to visit: Plaza de la Constitución, Can Prunera (modernist house converted into an art museum), the old tram and the port of Sóller.
  
  
• Recommendation: Combine the urban visit with a historic train ride from Palma, which is a cultural experience in itself.

Pollença

• History and traditions: Founded in Roman times, Pollença preserves a medieval old town with narrow streets and arcaded squares. El Calvari de Pollença, with its 365 steps, offers spectacular views and is a cultural symbol of the town.
  
  
• What to visit: Pollença Museum, ancient convents, the parish church and the local market on Sundays.
  
  
• Recommendation: Climb Calvari at dawn to live a unique historical and landscape experience.

Alcúdia

• History and heritage: Alcúdia combines Roman vestiges with a medieval walled historic center. Pollentia, the ancient Roman city, is located here, making Alcúdia a meeting point between classical and medieval history.
  
  
• What to visit: Remains of Pollentia, medieval walls, churches and historic streets full of artisan shops.
  
  
• Recommendation: Walk the wall at sunset to combine history, architecture and urban landscapes.

Why visit these towns

• They allow us to understand the historical evolution of Mallorca, from Roman and medieval times to modernity.
• They preserve unique architectural heritage, from monasteries and churches to modernist houses.
• They are centers of living culture, with local festivals, craft markets and traditional activities.
• They offer experiences for all the senses: history, art, gastronomy and nature in a single tour.

Tips to enjoy the historical and artistic routes

• Wear comfortable shoes and water
• Check museum and monument schedules
• Combine cultural routes with local gastronomy
• Take time to read and observe the details
• Adapt the routes according to the age and pace of the group