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Petra

Traditional rural town in central Majorca

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Petra
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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.

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 Petra

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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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Beaches in Petra

Beaches in Mallorca

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Dining in Petra

Restaurants in Petra

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Nightlife in Petra

Bars & Clubs in Petra

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Things to do in Petra

Things To Do in Petra

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Watersports in Petra

Watersports in Petra

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Villas in Petra

Villas in Petra

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Holidays Rentals in Petra

Holiday Rentals in Petra

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Hotels in Petra

There are a couple of choices for simple accommodation in Petra and its surroundings.

Hotels in Petra

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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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Property For Sale in Petra

Property for Sale in Petra

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Latest News & Reviews

Find out all about what is happening in Mallorca and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see, and experience on the island.

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Upcoming Events

The island hosts all sorts of events, including agricultural fairs in the spring and autumn, live music and DJs in the summer, religious fiestas and international sporting events. Some of the most popular are the Mallorca 312 cycling race in April, the Copa del Rey sailing regatta in July and the Moors vs Christians mock battle in September.

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Playa de Palma Mallorca Cycling Challenge
Mallorca fiestas, festivals & fairs 2019
Fiesta de la Luz - Light Festival in Palma Cathedral
Day of the Balearics
Galatzó Trail - Mallorca Mountain Marathon, Calvia
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