Palma Cathedral (La Seu) – A Complete Guide
Towering over Palma’s Old Town, La Seu (Palma Cathedral) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Mallorca. With its grand Gothic architecture, stunning stained-glass windows, and breathtaking location overlooking the sea, it’s a must-visit for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and photographers alike.
A Landmark Worth visiting in Palma de Mallorca
This guide covers everything you need to know about Palma Cathedral, from its fascinating history to ticket prices and must-see highlights inside!
History & Origins
Palma Cathedral has a rich and complex history, dating back over 700 years.
- Originally a Mosque: Before the Christian conquest of Mallorca in 1229, the site where the cathedral now stands was home to a Moorish mosque during the Islamic rule of the Balearic Islands.
- Founded by King James I: After the Catalan-Aragonese conquest of Mallorca, King James I of Aragon vowed to build a great cathedral in honor of the Virgin Mary. Construction began in 1230 and took over 300 years to complete.
- Major Restorations: Over the centuries, renovations were made, including an extensive redesign by the legendary architect Antoni Gaudí in the 20th century.
Architectural Highlights – A Gothic Masterpiece
Palma Cathedral is considered one of the greatest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. Here are some architectural features you shouldn’t miss:
🔹 The Famous Rose Window (Largest in Europe!)
One of the most breathtaking sights inside the cathedral is the massive rose window (known as the “Gothic Eye”). It is one of the largest stained-glass windows in the world, measuring 13 meters (43 feet) in diameter, and features over 1,200 pieces of glass.
💡 Tip: Visit in the morning when sunlight streams through the stained glass, creating a spectacular light show inside the cathedral.
🔹 Gaudí’s Influence
Between 1904-1914, the famous Antoni Gaudí was invited to modernize the cathedral. His main contributions included:
✔ Rearranging the choir stalls, moving them closer to the altar.
✔ Designing a stunning wrought-iron canopy over the main altar.
✔ Allowing more natural light to enter the cathedral.
🔹 The Chapel of the Holy Trinity
This is the final resting place of Mallorca’s former kings, including James II and James III.
🔹 The Mirador Door
Facing Parc de la Mar, this entrance was designed to give the illusion that the cathedral rises from the Mediterranean Sea.
Inside the Cathedral
Once inside, Palma Cathedral reveals even more treasures:
✔ The Royal Chapel – Home to Gaudí’s altar canopy and spectacular gold decorations.
✔ The Gothic Cloister – A quiet, lesser-known part of the cathedral with beautiful stonework.
✔ The Museum of Sacred Art – Features religious artifacts and paintings from Mallorca’s history.
✔ The Terraces & Rooftop Views – Climb to the cathedral’s rooftop for incredible panoramic views over Palma and the Mediterranean.
💡 Tip: The rooftop access is only available on guided tours during the warmer months.
Best Time to Visit & Ticket Information 🎟️
🕒 Opening Hours
Palma Cathedral is open year-round, but hours change depending on the season:
- April – October: Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 18:15, Saturday: 10:00 – 15:15
- November – March: Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 15:15, Saturday: 10:00 – 14:15
- Sunday: Closed for sightseeing (Mass only)
🎟️ Ticket Prices
- General Admission: €9
- Students & Seniors: €7
- Children under 10: Free
- Guided Tours (including rooftop access): Starting from €20
💡 Tip: Buy your tickets online in advance to skip the queues!
Nearby Attractions
After exploring La Seu, there are plenty of other historical and cultural sites within walking distance:
✔ Royal Palace of Almudaina – The former Moorish fortress turned royal residence.
✔ Parc de la Mar – A beautiful lakeside park with views of the cathedral.
✔ Es Baluard Museum – Palma’s modern art museum, housed in an ancient fortress.
✔ Palma Old Town – Wander through charming narrow streets filled with historic buildings, shops, and cafés.
Final Tips for Visiting Palma Cathedral
✔ Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially in peak season (June–September).
✔ Dress appropriately – No shorts or sleeveless tops inside (it’s a place of worship).
✔ Book a guided tour for access to hidden areas like the rooftop terraces.
✔ Visit in the morning to see the sunlight streaming through the rose window.
🌟 Palma Cathedral is more than just a church – it’s a journey through Mallorca’s past, blending Gothic beauty, Moorish heritage, and Gaudí’s creativity. Make it the highlight of your Palma itinerary!
🔗 Related Guides
Would you like to climb to the rooftop of Palma Cathedral? Let us know in the comments! 🏰✨
