3 Must See Sights in Palma
>The beautiful Spanish Balearic Island of Majorca has long been a favourite with families on their annual holidays. Not only does the island have a wonderfully temperate, year round climate, it also has a fantastic infrastructure in place for tourism. Majorca family holidays can be all things to all people: relaxing and rejuvenating or exciting and action packed. But most of all, a holiday to Majorca will be family friendly and fun.
Palma, the Balearic’s capital, is Majorca’s busiest port and close to half the island’s population calls it home. It is popular as a holiday destination with the Spanish as well as tourists on their Majorca family holidays. Here in the bustling port city one can experience diverse facets of authentic Spanish life, and there is something to keep everyone happy no matter what they are looking for from their visit; even Spain’s royal family return time and again for their holidays.
Castillo de Bellver
One of the most picturesque local attractions is the beautifully preserved Castillo de Bellver. The castle sits elegantly on a hill where it has presided over Palma for almost 700 years. Surrounded by a moat, and on two levels, the castle has the honour of being the only completely circular castle in Spain. Originally built as a royal summer residence, it was reincarnated as a prison for several centuries and there are still remnants of the prisoner’s ancient graffiti which adorns the walls. With children in tow in Majorca, family holidays are the ideal time to expose them to some culture, and the history and intriguing architecture of this fascinating castle will appeal to even the youngsters.
Gothic Cathedral
Even from the sea, the most prominent and striking building in Palma is the exquisite Gothic Cathedral. One cannot help but be impressed, not only by the size of the building, but by the intricate craftsmanship which makes up what surely must be the most elegant silhouette on Majorca. Family holidays to the city would not be complete without a visit to the cathedral and a stroll around its stunning interior. The kids will love exploring the pillars, arches and secret alcoves, and the parents will love the twisted tales of a construction which spanned a period of four centuries.
Banys Arabs (Arab Baths)
Even if you just visit Palma on a day trip on your Majorca family holidays, you should definitely include the Arab Baths on your agenda. One of the city’s more secret attractions, the baths date bath to the 10th century and are all that is left of the ancient Arab city, Medina Mayurqa. The half dome of the ‘tepedarium’ has 25 shafts down which sunlight pours, illuminating the baths. The dome is supported by a dozen columns and upon close inspection it becomes clear that each is unique. It is thought that, in an early example of recycling, the columns were originally part of various Roman buildings. The tranquil surrounds are a wonderful place to escape the busy city, and the children will love the enclosed courtyard which is filled with cactus, palms and orange trees.
Comments (2)
Majorca is a favourite holiday destination with its guaranteed sun, sandy beaches and lively night life. That’s the best place of holidays.
well written blog. Im glad that I could find more info on this. thanks