Palma, Mallorca

Our next stop was at Palma on the island of Mallorca, in the Balearic Islands.

It’s best known as a playground for the rich and famous, as demonstrated by the many many very expensive boats that filled the harbour.

Being a cruise it was just a quick visit to the island and we filled the time with a tour. We started at Bellver castle at the top of the hill over looking Palma.

It was built in the 14th century and is circular, which is unusual in Europe, with the 4 towers aligned to the points of the compass.

It was originally a palace but then became a military prison until it was handed over to the city and restored for tourism and as a museum.

The museum contains many Roman pieces that were discovered during excavations and restoration

From the top of the castle you have wonderful views across Palma.

Our next stop was yet another Cathedral!! And the palace. The Spanish certainly love their churches, and the catholic influence is ever present.

Royal palace of Almudaina on left of the Cathedral of Santa Maria
The palace was built over a previously moorish canal providing access by boat before the harbour was reclaimed
Cathedral de Santa Maria
The rose window had a diameter 13.8m
The colours on the columns are from the rose window. In 11/11 the projection sits perfectly underneath the opposite rose window.
The new chapel completed by Miquel Barcelo l, very Gaudi like.
Gaudi redesigned the interior of the cathedral

From the cathedral we were able to walk into the old town, and wander the streets. It was quite different from others we had seen with the blend of Arabian and European influences.

The main feature was the Arab baths.

We finished the tour on the shopping strip, before heading back to the ship.

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