Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma

Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma


One of Mallorca’s most famous landmarks, Mallorca Cathedral showcases beautiful Gothic architecture and pieces by some of Spain’s greatest artists.

View stonework and sculptures dating back to the 14th century, paintings by Barceló and designs by Gaudí when you visit the superb Mallorca Cathedral.

Notice that the high, decorative façade of Mallorca Cathedral points in the direction of Mecca, rather than Jerusalem as nearly all other cathedrals did at the time the cathedral was built. This follows the design of the mosque present on this site long before the cathedral construction began in 1300. 

Outside, admire the cathedral’s high pointed spires. This exterior was actually a late addition, after an 1851 earthquake caused severe damage to the façade. Architect Juan Bautista Peyronnet redesigned the cathedral in the modern Gothic style and replaced much of the original Renaissance structure with the Gothic features we see today. 

Foremost among these features are the four statues above the entrance. These depict the saints Peter, Paul and Catalina Tomàs and the local historical figure Ramon Llull. Just above the stunning Gothic portal, look for sculptures showing the Eternal Father and the Last Supper.

Keep walking around the outside of the cathedral to see the huge central vault. This reaches 144 feet (43 metres) into the sky and is marked with turrets and rounded stained-glass windows. 

Step through the entrance to view the giant iron canopy over the main altar. This was designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí in 1909. On the main walls look for paintings by contemporary Mallorcan artist Miquel Barceló. Explore the cathedral further and inspect what locals claim to be a piece of the True Cross. 

Be sure to see the beautifully decorated Royal Chapel which holds the tombs of kings Jaume II and III. A particular highlight is the 39-foot (12-metre) stained-glass window of colourful flowers and burning candles. This was constructed using 1,236 separate pieces of glass. Stand below it on a bright day to discover why this place has been called the “Cathedral of Light.”

Mallorca Cathedral is located in the old part of the city. It is closed on Sundays during the summer and the whole weekend during the winter. There is a small admission fee year-round.

Reviews of Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma

4.6
Top destination
5 - Excellent
278
" "5 - Excellent 61.64079822616408%
4 - Good
158
" "4 - Good 35.033259423503324%
3 - Okay
14
" "3 - Okay 3.104212860310421%
2 - Disappointing
1
" "2 - Disappointing 0.22172949002217296%
1 - Terrible
0
" "1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

BG

Check timings and free entry days/times

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveller

Could not go into the cathedral

3/5 - Okay

Rob-Walker

Was not open on Sunday

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

Went twice to see the cathedral but the queues were to long to wait

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Take a picnic & enjoy a full day out visiting this impressive Cathedral, Palma & it’s wonderful scenery! Make sure you don’t wear revealing clothes eg crop tops or short shorts as you may not be admitted. It’s a respectful building & should be treated as such (my opinion only)

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

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