Petra
Traditional rural town in central Majorca
The small rural town of Petra lies in the middle of Mallorca, surrounded by agricultural land.
Petra is best known as being the birthplace of Fray Junipero Serra, a missionary who some claim founded California. Petra is also known for its sandstone, which has created many of the villages of Mallorca.
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History & Culture in Petra
Petra's history
This sleepy town of sand-coloured houses would be completely off the tourist map if it were not the birthplace of Mallorca's most famous son, Fray Junipero Serra.
Born in 1713, he became a priest in 1730 and worked as a missionary in Mexico from 1749 to 1763. At the age of 54 he was sent to California and the missions he established there grew into some of the US's largest cities including San Diego and San Francisco.
Sights & Attractions in Petra
History, architecture and culture in Petra
You can visit the house where Serra's parents lived, a museum devoted to his life and work, the font where he was baptised (in the church of Sant Pere) and a plaque outside the same church describing him as 'explorer missionary hero civiliser'. Anyone walking down the street leading to his birthplace decorated with majolica tiles depicting him baptising Native Americans might be inclined to disagree, but by the standards of his day he was certainly a hero.
There is a small hill just outside Petra which has a small church, The Ermita de Bonany. Enjoy the solitude and the views from the top.
The wealth generated from its agricultural past is shown in the size of its church, Sant Pere, which was built in the 16th and 17th centuries.
The area around Petra is scattered with windmills, reflecting the relationship Petra has with cereal crops. These days, vineyards also prosper in the fertile lands and you can arrange visits for tours and tastings in advance.
Sights in Petra
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Museum of Juniper Serra Fray, Petra
Museum located in the house where the famous friar spent his childhood. It shows the typical way of life in Mallorca in the 18th century.
Events in Petra
There is a market every Wednesday morning. Petra's autumn fair is held on the third Sunday of September. There are also smaller fiestas during the summer months.
Events in Mallorca
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American Car Show Port Adriano
The vibrant American Car Festival is set to take over the central square of Port Adriano.
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Algaid'Art Fair
The streets fo the small town of Algaida turn into a giant open-air art gallery for one night in September.
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Deia International Music Festival
In 1978, a group of professional and amateur musicians came together under the name ‘Paramusical Workshop' and began performing concerts in Llucalcari and the Deià church. This marked the humble beginnings of what is today known as the Deià International Music Festival. The quality and quantity of the guest artists have been growing steadily ever since.
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Doggie Race at Port Adriano, El Toro
Port Adriano opens its doors to the Doggie Race a unique and family event where everybody will enjoy and where the pets will be the real protagonists.
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Festa des Vermar (Wine Fair), Binissalem
La Festa des Vermar is the annual grape harvest festival that includes parades, celebrations, grape-crushing competitions and a wine tasting contest. Don't miss the grape battle!
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Nit de l'Art
Palma hosts its Nit de l'Art every year in the middle of September. The museums and galleries of Palma open their doors to visitors for free during this evening.
Hotels in Petra
There are a couple of choices for simple accommodation in Petra and its surroundings.
How to get to Petra
By car
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Petra is a 40 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
Public transport
There is a direct buses from the airport. Check for times.
Transfers for Mallorca
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Luxury Chauffeur Services & Airport Transfers
Experience luxury and convenience with this company. Arrive at your yacht charter, sunset tour or boat trip in unparalleled style in a Rolls Royce Ghost.
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Janer Bus Airport Transfers
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
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Mallorca Taxi Car
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
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Shuttle Spain Transfers
With offices in Alcudia and the airport, Majorca Airport Transfers has a large fleet of taxis, minibuses and coaches to suit all group sizes.
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Conde Transfers
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.
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Mallorca Private Airport Transfers
Great quality service at rates that are irresistible. This company exclusively transfer you around Mallorca without having to pay an excessive price.
