The old city of Palma de Mallorca is dominated by the 13th century Cathedral. You could not miss it as we sailed into the harbor.
The shuttle bus took us from the port right over to the Cathedral. We decided to make it our first stop.
The cathedral was founded in 1229 on the site of a former mosque. Due to some unfortunate architectural decisions it took until the end of the 16th century to get it finished. Even after that there have been numerous earthquakes and fires which have necessitated rebuilding and redecorating.
It was a breezy day on the sea shore as can be seen by the fountain.
This metal tree inside the entrance depicts the saints and blessed of Mallorca including some martyrs from the Spanish Civil War of 1936.
The nave is pretty impressive. This is one of the tallest Gothic churches in the world.
The canopy of the main altar was designed by Antoni Gaudi around 1910.
This side chapel of the Holy Eucharist was decorated in 2007 by Mallorcan artist Miquel Barcelo. It is definitely something that takes getting used to. It’s a Terra Cotta cave with a marine theme and a cascade of skulls at the side. Rather spooky if you ask me.
Contrast the work of Barcelo with this Renaissance altar of Corpus Christi.
This rose window is magnificent – one of the largest in the world.
In the cloister is a statue of St. Ramon Llull – 13th century monk, theologian, writer, mathematician, martyr. Quite a guy.
We got a nice view of the harbor and the Silhouette from the steps of the Cathedral.
We left the Cathedral and walked up past the Palace. It was the original residence of Jaime the Conqueror who took Mallorca back from the Moors in 1229.
This street is one of the major shopping areas. It got busy later on.
Eventually we found ourselves on La Rambla – Mallorca edition. Just as nice as the street in Barcelona.
Anybody fancy a carriage ride?
Back near the Palace we walked through the King’s Garden area.
A delightful way to go back to the shuttle pickup.
Back on the ship we were ready for a couple of sea days after 3 days in Rome and 4 ports in a row. We really enjoyed our visit to Palma – sacred and secular both were great.