Arc de sa Drassana

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The name 'Drassana' derives from the Arabic term 'dar as-sina'a', meaning house of industry or construction, highlighting the Moorish influence on Mediterranean nautical vocabulary.

2. 2

   This arch served as a vital portal connecting the internal city fortifications to the bustling shipyards where vessels were constructed during the Kingdom of Mallorca.

3. 3

   The masonry reflects traditional Mallorcan stonework, utilized for its durability against both structural loads and the region's saline coastal air.

Overview

The Arc de sa Drassana is a preserved medieval stone archway serving as one of the few remaining physical links to the historic shipyards of Palma de Mallorca. Located along the city's ancient defensive perimeter, the structure once provided maritime access to the royal shipyards known as the Drassanes Reials. The arch features a rounded stone design characteristic of the period's military and civil engineering in the Balearic Islands. It acts as a pedestrian transition point between the higher-elevation historical center and the lower-lying maritime districts. The site remains integrated into the urban fabric, allowing visitors to walk directly beneath the span while exploring the old city wall route. As of September 2026, the structure remains an accessible public monument within the Passeig Dalt Murada area.

Insider tips

• Combine your visit with a walk along the Dalt Murada for a comprehensive view of Palma’s defensive wall system.

• Visit during the golden hour to capture the texture of the stone archway against the changing light of the historic center.