Gothic Heritage of Palma de Mallorca Walk

Palma is a city with Medieval origins and hidden amongst some of the more ramshackle parts of the city are some architectural gems from the 14th century.

Start at Placa Espana and head down Carrer Oms towards the church of Santa Margalida where the old gateway to the city, the Babalcofol stood, and also where an ancient monastery used to exist. Continue down Carrer Oms until you reach Las Ramblas, cross over to Misericordia where you will find the Church of the Hospital, or de la Sang, an example of a Medieval hospital. Follow carrer Sant Marti and then turn left on to Carrer Sant Jaume past the church of Saint Jaume (parish church) until you reach Placa Joan Carles.

From here, you need to navigate through the tiny lanes behind Passeig Born to find Placa Cort (follow Carrer Can Brondo, the Carrer Sant Nicolau, then up some steps to reach Carrer Sant Bartomeu and straight on to Placa Cort). Beyond Placa Cort is Placa Santa Eulalia, a beautiful sandstone Gothic church with origins in the 13th century. This was the site where King Jaume I was coronated in 1229 after he conquered the then-ruling Moors. Construction of the church was not completed until the 16th century and its distinctive Gothic steeple was actually built in the 19th century. Look out for the gargoyles and the highly decorative main entrance.

Continue down Carrer Convent Sant Francesc to the imposing Basillca Sant Francesc from the 13th century. Be sure to visit the pretty cloisters inside. From here, head down to the cathedral, La Seu. You can take a little detour to visit the monastery of Santa Clara (Carrer Santa Clara) and the Museum of Mallorca (Carrer Portella) before you reach La Seu. You will also find the Episcopal Palace, home to the Diocesan Museum and the Royal Palace Almudaina.

After the Almudaina, turn right on to Passeig Born before turning left on to Carrer Sant Feliu. This tiny street has a number of shops and galleries to explore before you reach the church of Sant Creu. This Gothic church was was built on top of the crypt of Sant Llorenc and was one of the first Gothic churches built in Palma in the 14th century.

The final Gothic building in Palma that is recommended is Bellver Castle, but this is a bus or taxi ride away (or a couple of miles walk, it is at the top of a hill). Bellver Castle offers a wonderful example of a round defensive fortress from the 14th century and provides great views over the city.

Read about Palma's Sights & Attractions.