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Temples #1 in Palma de Mallorca

Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca

4.7 · 64,710 reviews
Formal and solemn
Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, Plaça de la Seu, s/n, Centre, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The central rose window, known as 'the Gothic eye', measures nearly 12 meters in diameter.

2

Gaudí's intervention included removing the high altar's baroque altarpiece to improve sightlines to the bishop's throne.

3

The cathedral's nave height reaches 44 meters, making it one of the tallest Gothic structures in Europe.

4

The bell tower contains nine bells, the largest of which, 'N'Eloi', weighs over 4,500 kilograms.

5

The building was constructed using local 'marés' sandstone, which changes color depending on the light.

6

Barceló’s mural, completed in 2007, represents the miracle of the loaves and fishes using over 300 ceramic pieces.

7

The cathedral serves as a landmark for maritime navigation due to its prominent seaside position.

8

The floor plan features a unique arrangement where the main altar is positioned to face the rising sun on the winter solstice.

Overview

Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, known locally as La Seu, is a landmark Gothic cathedral situated on the Palma waterfront. Constructed starting in 1229 on the site of a former mosque, the building features one of the world's largest Gothic rose windows. The interior underwent a major renovation by Antoni Gaudí in the early 20th century, introducing modern lighting and rearranging the choir. Miquel Barceló contributed a contemporary ceramic mural to the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament. The structure is supported by massive flying buttresses that stabilize the high nave. It remains the seat of the Bishop of Mallorca and a central fixture of the Balearic skyline.

Photo spot

From the edge of the Parc de la Mar lake looking up at the cathedral's reflection in the water.

Insider tips

Walk the perimeter of the Parc de la Mar below the cathedral for the best exterior perspective.

Visit during the early morning to capture the light filtering through the stained glass.

Use the provided audio guide to identify specific architectural changes made by Gaudí.

What to avoid

Avoid visiting during religious services if you are a tourist, as sightseeing is restricted; ignore unofficial ticket sellers on the street.

Good to know

Closed to tourism on Sundays for religious services; may have restricted hours during local religious holidays.

Etiquette

Shoulders and knees must be covered; hats should be removed upon entry; maintain a quiet tone.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak sun and crowds.
Address
Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, Plaça de la Seu, s/n, Centre, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
39.567, 2.648
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleLevantine Gothic with 20th-century Modernist modifications
Key featureCentral Rose Window (The Gothic Eye)

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak sun and crowds..

From the edge of the Parc de la Mar lake looking up at the cathedral's reflection in the water.

Close by you'll find Royal Palace of La Almudaina, Train Sóller Station (Palma de Mallorca), Museu de La Seu de Mallorca.