Mallorca, the largest island in Spain's Balearic
Islands, is known for beach resorts, sheltered coves,
limestone mountains, grand architecture and Roman and Moorish remains.
|
|
Palma, the capital, has a vibrant waterfront.
The Paseo Maratimo promenade stretches along the seafront
overlooking the harbour filled with fishing boats and luxury
yachts.
|
Palma's vast La Seu Cathedral is an architectural landmark. It is a
hybrid of styles added over generations, with a Gothic exterior and a Modernist
interior.
|
The cathedral was damaged in an earthquake in 1851, so
neo-gothic buttresses and embellishments were added.
|
Antoni Gaudi modernized the
interior of the cathedral and also influenced a modernist
(art nouveau) craze in the city.
|
A delightful exhibition in the cathedral museum showed
interpretations of biblical art as seen by aliens.
|
The Royal Palace of La Almudaina,
once the seat of Moorish rulers, was the site of the
prosperous Majorcan kingdom of the 14th century and still
serves as the center of government and a residence of the
Spanish royal family.
|
The Arab Quarter has charming
courtyards, beautiful architecture and small museums
dedicated to the history of Mallorca.
|
17th and 18th century walls encircle the
Casc Antic (the old center) following earlier walls dating back
to Arab times.
|
ancient city center |
Plaça de
Cort |
La Lonja
|
Distinct streets and plazas in Palma
demonstrate the different eras in Mallorca's history.
|
Mallorcan gastronomy
is a fusion of cultures, known for unique blends of
seasonings, seafood,
vegetable pastries, cheeses, and liqueurs.
|
People were buying armloads of ensaimadas (delicate sweet soft
buns) sold in characteristic octagonal boxes.
|
The Passeig del Born is a
tree-lined avenue lined with high-end shops and filled with
cafes and buskers.
|
Families gather in public squares for music and
dancing, especially during Mallorca's many fiestas.
|