Culture in Mallorca

On the Island of Mallorca, the towns of Pollença and Puerto Pollensa have long been classed as the jewels of the North. This is mainly due to the fact that they have both retained their identity.

Pollença was founded in the 13th century to avoid attacks by pirates, the most famous occurring in 1550, which is re-enacted every year on 2nd August. The battle of La Patrona, between the Moors and the Christians, is commemorated annually during a week of parades by men carrying guns and swords.

The town of Pollença has plenty of character with its main square Placa Major, being the location of Nostradamus Senyora dels Angels church, complete with its famous rose window. An outdoor craft market is held in the square throughout the year. The town comprises of may other small squares in which to enjoy and soak up the local atmosphere.

The Pont Roma bridge is situated on the edge of the town and dates back to the 14th century.

You can reach the wonderful Calvari church by climbing the famous 365 Steps and admire the view of the town below.

A great walk to do on the outskirts of Pollenca is the walk to the top of the Puig de Maria where at the summit there is a beautiful old chapel and a small cafe as well as some amazing views of the town below as well as the bays of Puerto Pollensa.

Prior to the arrival of tourism to the area in the 20th century, agriculture formed the main stay for the region although smaller industries such as shoe making had made an appearance. The tourist boom really started in the 1960’s and Puerto Pollensa increased in size, expanding towards the mountains but retaining its old identity. Even today tourists can walk down the famous Pine Walk and enjoy its traditional feel, an experience that makes many holiday makers return year after year.

The wine industry in Mallorca is a growing sector with much of the Island being suitable for vine-growing. The best known wines are produced in Binissalem (found on the plains coming off the Tramuntana Mountains) and Pla and Llevant (from the area on the fertile plain of eastern Mallorca). There are a number of wine tasting tours available on the Island and very local to Pollenca is Mortixt which as well as being a national park has some amazing vineyards and host great tours for you to see the production facilities and taste some award winning wines. There is also some more vineyards close by at Can Vidalet and each year there is fanstic wine fair held in Pollenca old town over a weekend.

For more information visit www.vinyesmortitx.com, www.mallorcawinetours.com or www.sonmaiol.com.