Walking in Majorca - Exploring Modern-Day Palma
By Tony Maniscalco
Many travellers are interested in exploring the wild countryside of Majorca, but for those who hope to enjoy a little civilisation and culture on their Majorca holidays, Palma (formerly known as Palma de Mallorca) is definitely the place to be. There is a vast difference when it comes to the urban or rural scenery when it comes to a holiday walking in Majorca. Visitors to Palma will be likely to begin their exploration at the Pla�a d'Espanya, the city's transport hub, and home to the Ferrocarill de Soller, a railway station dating back to the line's creation in 1911.
The Old City
The Old City is located in the south-east area of Palma, behind the cathedral, and is formed of a fascinating maze of streets, hinting in their design towards a Middle-Eastern presence on the island. The walkways are narrow and atmospheric, with ornate buildings. Walking in Majorca down these picturesque streets strikes many visitors as being vaguely reminiscent of Venice. Most of the buildings are private residences, though a few are open to the public and house museums or galleries. The characteristic metal boxes, carvings and overhanging eaves of these buildings give a contrast to the views of the bay from the Old City walls.
The Arab Baths
Known locally as the Banys �rabs, the baths are one of the few remnants of Palma's Moorish past, and are accessed via the Ca'n Serra street near the Convent of the Cathedral. Interestingly, the small two-roomed brick building that houses the baths is in fact of Byzantine origin, dating back to the 11th century and theorised to have originated as part of the home of a Muslim nobleman. Walking in Majorca will often allow a curious traveller to uncover unusual facets of the island's history and Palma is no exception. With features such as the Arab Baths waiting to be discovered, it's definitely worth taking time to explore a little further on your walking expeditions.
La Seu
Palma is famous for La Seu, the Roman Catholic cathedral built on the site of a pre-existing Arab mosque. It took many years to construct, with work beginning in 1229, and only finishing in 1601 - about 300 years later! Designed in a Catalan gothic style, the cathedral also features northern European influences. Overlooking the Parc de la Mar and the Mediterranean sea, La Seu provides some wonderful architectural delights, and the many benches shaded under a long blue and yellow canopy are the perfect spot to take a break, relax, and put your feet up while enjoying the serenity of Palma.
Walking in Majorca through the streets of the island's jewel, Palma, will not only allow you to experience the beauty of the landscape, but also the beauty of the rich history of the region.
Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us walking in Majorca to see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.
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