We were in Mallorca a few years ago and were surprised at how many sights the island has to offer. During our stay, however, we only got a glimpse. Sabine Bassier from the Fratuschi travel blog for luxury travel in Mallorca knows a lot better. She travels to the island regularly and has Mallorca travel tips collected that are worth a look. Here she gives us her tips on Mallorca history.
Mallorca history, enjoyment and nature
For many Germans, the Balearic island of Mallorca is synonymous with party and beach vacation. But just dismissing the island as a mass tourism destination doesn't do it justice.
I got to know many regions in Mallorca and take you on a journey of inspiration across the island.
Mallorca history - witnesses to the past
Mallorca has an eventful history behind it. All over the island you can find watchtowers and defense towers, around 80 in total. From the Middle Ages to the 19th century, the people of Mallorca were often victims of pillage, murder and slavery. In the 15th century in particular, pirates came from the Mediterranean region and terrorized the population. The towers were built as an early warning system along the coast and as a shelter for the population. The towers have only recently been part of the cultural heritage and are now to be restored as far as possible, because only 24 are currently accessible.
Torre de Canyamel - a witness to the history of Mallorca
You can find one of these towers in the east in Canyamel. The 13th century defense tower Torre de Canyamel is now home to a museum in which the history of Mallorca, the life and work of that time is presented. A trip to this museum can be wonderfully combined with the restaurant, which is also on the premises. The specialties of the Porxada de sa Torre include suckling pig and lamb from the finca, which is located directly at the tower. I also recommend the almond cake!
Ctra. Artà-Canyamel, km 5 - 07580 Capdepera
Talaia d´ Albercutx and forced labor ruins - Mallorca history
A tower, however locked and not accessible, is located on the Formentor peninsula. The viewpoint offers a view over Mallorca and is a bird hotspot for ornithologists.
Nearby are ruins, witnesses of the Spanish Civil War. Forced laborers slept here, all of them prisoners who were forced to build roads under Franco.
Nature walk with a view
I also have a tip for hikers nearby:
The mountain Na Blanca offers a hiking route that is not demanding, but sometimes very steep. But after a stretch through pine forest, you will also be rewarded with views of the east coast and the Tramuntana mountains. The beginning of the circular hike is easy to miss. The entrance is next to a property fence and starts quite steeply.
Enjoy at the weekly market in Santanyi
The weekly market in Santanyi in the southeast is no longer an insider tip. Still, I recommend you visit there. On Wednesdays and Saturdays from 09:00 a.m. to 13:00 p.m., groceries, textiles and handicrafts are offered on the Placa Major. You can also buy the famous Flor de Sal, which is made nearby in Ses Salines, here. The market is so recommendable because the atmosphere of the square and the alleys alone is worth a visit. The church of Sant Andreu from the 18th century directly on the market square is a photo opportunity and houses a baroque organ. You have the choice between a variety of cafes and restaurants to take a break.
How to get there
Arrival by plane, bus or train*. There are airlines that do several times a day fly to Palma de Mallorca*. You can also use the Ferry from Toulon to Mallorca* translate. On the island it's best to rent a rental car. Driving itself is no greater challenge than in Germany. However, I advise you to use a navigation device, as the signage on the streets is sometimes quite unclear.
Travel time
I recommend the off-season in particular to enjoy nature and go hiking. Especially in spring and early summer between mid-March and early June, the weather is usually not that hot. At this time of year the island is green and in bloom. Of course, the temperatures are also pleasant again in the off-season, but midsummer has parched and burned the landscape. As is well known, the almond blossom is worth a visit from the end of January, but many restaurants and hotels are still in hibernation at the time and will not open their doors again until mid-March.
That has to be in the suitcase for the Mallorca vacation
- Comfortable walking boots, because Mallorca offers many opportunities for hiking
- If you are planning an elegant evening, then you should bring comfortable pumps .
- For a walk on the promenade or on the beach are suitable Sandals.
- What else you need for a hike can be found in our hiking checklist check
- Gifts for hikers
- A backpack, in which you can store all the utensils for a day. For hikes in the mountains we recommend one backpack.
- What you need for a beach vacation, we have collected on this page. A checklist will help you pack your suitcase.
- Reading material for the beach either.
Do you fancy island hopping? It's possible with these ferries
We thank Sabine for this contribution to Mallorca history. It makes you curious to get to know the Balearic island better.
Destinations in Spain you find here. discover Slow Travel Experiences here.
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