Like almost anywhere I travel that has an historical centre, this is where I begin my explorations. I love the vibes of these parts of cities, the character and charm. Let me show you old town Palma de Mallorca and the gems I have found here.

Let Me Show You Old Town Palma de Mallorca
Old Town Palma de Mallorca

Cathedral

First thing I did was head straight for the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma. I wanted to see this magnificent building most of all. What a beauty and exquisite example of Gothic architecture. Building began after the conquest from the Muslims in 1229 and on the site of a mosque. Construction lasted all the way until the 17th century.

Walk around all sides and head across the man-made lake near the sea. This will offer stunning views, especially as the sun is rising and the building begins to glow.

Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma

Unique Architecture

One of my favourite things to discover is the variety of quirky buildings in Palma. For example, this is Can Barcelo, a beautiful structure covered with scenic tile and details of insects.

Another is Can Corbella, an art nouveau masterpiece. Squeezed in amongst several small alleys, this detailed building is full of pretty coloured windows and sweeping curves.

Can Forteza Rey will take your memories right back to Barcelona. The building is so ornate and a prime example of local Modernista architecture. There is so much to take in, one must stand and have neck craned for a while.

This is a tiny snippet of the variety of buildings you will see on your next visit to Palma. Its like walking around in a treasure chest of architecture.

Alleys

Getting lost in these tiny alleys and narrow streets is a passion. In Palma at wintertime, these streets are virtually free of people. This is what struck me as the most unusual, especially before 10am. I could stand in an intersection of alleys, and take a 360-degree video down four different streets, and not a single sole is visible.

The sun does not reach the cobblestones here in winter, that narrow is the labyrinth. One must look up continually to catch glimpses of beautiful balconies, windows and other decorative features.

Streets

There are a number of streets in old town that are pedestrian only, these are the ones that are more touristy and most of the shops and restaurants cater to tourism. While they are pretty, especially at night with the lights aglow, this is not my favourite area.

On the edges of the old town are where visitors will find the luxury stores and shopping streets. Don’t miss Paseo de Borne, walking down the centre of this boulevard and taking in the winter sunshine is a beautiful thing.

And at night? Pure magic. With fountains and statuary, lights and café’s, the atmosphere here is pretty and glamorous.

Old Town Palma de Mallorca

Graffiti

I alluded to the graffiti in my previous post, but it would be remiss of me not to share the extent to which you will find this form of expression in the old city. The graffiti really is everywhere. I don’t think I have seen this level since my visit to Salerno last year.

What surprises me is the presence on the old buildings. Usually, historical centres try and protect their treasured buildings, but not so here. A lot of the graffiti is politically based too, which gives the area a bit of an edge. As I walk through these narrow streets, there is a heavy scent of urine, some trash and an overall feeling of neglect.

Palma is a surprise for me. Even though I do enjoy walking these streets in this central core, I don’t find myself growing particularly fond of this city. Perhaps as I explore deeper and different neighbourhoods, my feelings will change. I am glad to be here, this is an interesting and lively part of Spain that is opening my eyes.

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