Temples #3 in Artà

Ermita de Betlem

4.5 · 716 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Ermita de Betlem, Lloc Poligon 5, 48, 07579 Artà, Illes Balears, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The hermitage was built on the site of the former 'Binialgorfa' estate.

2

The interior of the church features an altarpiece designed by the painter Manuel Bayeu, who was a contemporary of Goya.

3

The site includes a unique 'via crucis' path lined with stone crosses that leads up to the hermitage.

4

The architecture is characterized by its austerity, reflecting the lifestyle of the eremitic monks who lived here.

5

The water spring at the site is considered one of the few reliable water sources in this arid part of the Artà mountains.

Overview

Ermita de Betlem is a 19th-century hermitage situated within the Llevant Natural Park on the island of Mallorca. The complex sits at an elevation of approximately 280 meters on the side of Puig de sa Creu, overlooking the Bay of Alcúdia. It was founded in 1805 by members of the Eremitic Order of Saint Paul and Saint Anthony on the grounds of a former Moorish farmhouse. The site features a neoclassical church with a striking Baroque-influenced altar. A notable feature of the courtyard is the 'Font de s'Ermita,' a natural spring water fountain. The hermitage served as a residence for monks until 2010, when the last hermit departed. It remains an active site for reflection and is frequently accessed by hikers exploring the surrounding Serra de Llevant mountain range.

Photo spot

The stone terrace directly in front of the church, which offers a panoramic vista of the northern Mallorcan coastline.

Insider tips

Bring ample water as there are no shops or services at the remote summit.

Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking footwear due to the rocky, uneven terrain of the access paths.

Check local weather reports before ascending, as the site is exposed and lacks significant shelter from high winds.

What to avoid

Attempting to drive a standard rental car all the way to the gate, as the final track is unpaved, extremely narrow, and often restricted to permit holders.

Etiquette

Maintain a low volume out of respect for the site's history; dress modestly as it is a religious site.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in spring or autumn to avoid the peak heat of the Balearic summer.
Address
Ermita de Betlem, Lloc Poligon 5, 48, 07579 Artà, Illes Balears, Spain
39.737, 3.311
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleNeoclassical with Baroque influences

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in spring or autumn to avoid the peak heat of the Balearic summer..

The stone terrace directly in front of the church, which offers a panoramic vista of the northern Mallorcan coastline.

Close by you'll find Parc Natural de la Península de Llevant, Santuari de Sant Salvador, Cala Mesquida.

Spain

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