Parish of St Cross

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The church was officially established as one of the original four parishes created in Palma after the arrival of King James I.

2. 2

   Its southern portal is considered a masterpiece of the Majorcan late Gothic style, featuring detailed sculptural work that survived subsequent architectural modifications.

3. 3

   The interior holds a funerary monument dedicated to the historian and chronicler Guillem Sagrera, a significant figure in Majorcan architecture.

4. 4

   The site originally housed a mosque before being consecrated as a Christian place of worship in the 13th century.

5. 5

   The church underwent significant modifications in the 17th century, which added the current baroque decorative elements to the original Gothic core.

Overview

The Parish of St Cross, known locally as Església de la Santa Creu, is one of the oldest parish churches in Palma de Mallorca. Its origins trace back to the immediate aftermath of the 1229 Christian conquest, standing on the site of a former mosque. The current structure, primarily dating from the 15th to the 17th century, features a prominent Gothic facade and a notable portal carved by the sculptor Rafel Guirau. The interior follows the traditional Catalan Gothic style with a single nave and lateral chapels. It is recognized for housing significant religious art, including 17th-century altarpieces and intricate wooden carvings. The church maintains a deep historical connection to the maritime history of the city, serving as a landmark for sailors and merchants in the nearby harbour area. Its architectural composition includes distinct defensive elements typical of the period's ecclesiastical construction. It remains an active place of worship for the local community in the historic Centre district.

Insider tips

• Visit during the early morning to catch the sunlight hitting the intricate details of the main portal.

• Walk the perimeter of the building to see the defensive walls integrated into the church's exterior structure.

• Look for the local artisans' workshops located on the narrow side streets surrounding the church.