Sanctuary de Sant Salvador, Felanitx
Old monastery on top of hill with wonderful views
This old hermitage, 509m above sea level at the highest point of the Serra de Llevant near the town of Felanitx, was the senior house of Mallorca's monastic order and the last to lose its monks in 1992.
It is still a popular place of pilgrimage, flanked by two enormous landmarks - to one side a 14m stone cross, to the other a 35m column topped by a statue of Christ holding out his right hand in blessing.
The church contains a fine carved alabaster retable, but more interesting is the side chapel off the gatehouse, full of poignant mementos and prayers to Our Lady. Like other former monasteries, Sant Salvador has a few simple rooms available for pilgrims and visitors.
The views from the terrace take in Cabrera, Cap de Formentor and several other hilltop sanctuaries dotted across the plain. From the statue of Christ you look out towards the Castell de Santueri, a 14th century rock castle built into the cliffs on the site of a ruined Arab fortress.
Visitor comments
- "There is a long winding road to reach the monastery but it is safe and if your in a tour the bus drivers are very experienced. Well ours was! Well worth a visit to see the spectacular views and monument of Jesus Christ and the cross. There is a cafe and a small souvenir shop there too. Our trip was on a Sunday and included was a short light and music performance inside the monastery." - Trip Advisor
- "This is a fabulous half day outing. The drive up is great and once at the top it's magically serene with superb 360 degree views of the entire island. The church is well worth an explore." - Trip Advisor
- "This was my favourite attraction when i was in Mallorca. The drive zig zagging up the mountain to the car parking was an experience - thankfully we did not meet too many cars coming in the other direction! Once we reached the summit we found ample parking and the walked to the huge statue from which you had a view of some amazing vistas. A short walk to the monastery/hotel/cathedral and it the church it was a very impressive and peaceful building. A nice coffee and bun at the cafe before our decent was great too." - Trip Advisor
