The Royal Palace of La Almudaina, located in Palma de Mallorca, has an origin that dates back to the Muslim era of the island. Its name, "Almudaina", comes from the Arabic "al-mudayna", which means "the citadel". This place was originally a Muslim fortress built in the 10th century, when Mallorca was part of the Caliphate of Córdoba.With the Christian conquest of Mallorca by King James I of Aragon in 1229, the fortress was transformed and expanded to become a royal residence. The palace was adapted to the Gothic style and Christian architectural elements were integrated, although it kept certain characteristics of its original Muslim structure.It was rebuilt in 1309 by King James II, together with his wife Esclaramunda de Foix, based on the model of the palace of the Kings of Mallorca in Perpignan.Over the centuries, La Almudaina served as the official residence of the Majorcan and Aragonese monarchs, and played an important role in the administration and defense of the island.Today, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina remains one of the official residences of the Spanish royal family and is used for official ceremonies and events. It is also a major tourist attraction, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and admire its impressive architecture, which reflects the fusion of Muslim and Christian influences.

The rise of tourism in Mallorca has had a significant impact on employment in the local community, transforming the island's economy and employment structure in a number of ways.The growth of the tourism sector has generated a large number of jobs in various tourism-related sectors such as hospitality, catering, trade and transport. Hotels, restaurants, bars, shops and transport companies have seen an increase in demand for staff, providing numerous job opportunities for local residents.However, many of these jobs are seasonal, concentrated in the spring and summer months when the flow of tourists is bigger. This has led to a significant reliance on temporary employment, with many workers facing periods of unemployment or underemployment during the off-season.

Tourism has encouraged local workers to diversify their skills. Mastery of several languages, training in hospitality and tourism, and the ability to offer quality services have become essential.While tourism has generated a large number of jobs, it has also had an effect on other traditional sectors such as agriculture and fishing. Many young people have chosen to work in the tourism sector, which offers more competitive wages and more attractive working conditions, leading to a decline in the workforce in these sectors.The tourism boom has transformed Mallorca into a predominantly service-based economy. The tourism industry has become the main driver of the local economy, leading to increased dependence on this sector. This has provided economic stability, but has also created vulnerabilities, especially during global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.Tourism growth has fostered local entrepreneurship, with many residents starting their own businesses to cater to tourism demand.The tourism boom in Mallorca has transformed employment in the local community, creating numerous job opportunities and diversifying the skills of workers. However, it has also introduced challenges, such as the seasonality of employment and dependence on the tourism sector, which require management and adaptation strategies to ensure long-term sustainable development.

The growth of tourism in Mallorca has had an impact on the cost of living and the housing market, with significant effects on the daily lives of local residents.
The growth of tourism has led to an increase in demand for property, especially in popular areas with tourists and international buyers. This results in rising house prices, both for purchase and for rent. Properties in coastal areas and in city centres such as Palma have seen their prices rise, making it difficult for many local residents to access housing.
The rise in tourism has driven the proliferation of short-term holiday rentals, such as those offered through platforms such as Airbnb. This has reduced the availability of homes for long-term rental and contributed to rising rental prices. Many properties previously available to permanent residents are now being targeted at tourists, leading to a lack of affordable housing.
The pressure from the property market has led to a transformation in the housing supply. Property owners often prefer to rent their properties on a short-term basis to tourists due to the higher income they can earn compared to long-term residential rentals. This has increased the difficulty in finding reasonably priced properties for locals.
The growth of tourism has also affected the cost of living in general. Demand for tourist-oriented goods and services has driven up prices in areas such as restaurants, shops and amenities. This can make everyday life more expensive for residents, who face an increase in the cost of basic goods and services.
The increase in housing prices and the cost of living has exacerbated social inequalities. People with lower incomes, including many workers in the tourism sector, have a harder time supporting themselves on the island, especially in high-demand areas.
In short, the growth of tourism in Mallorca has raised the cost of housing and the cost of living in general, creating challenges for local residents. The effects on the real estate market and daily life reflect the need to manage tourism development in a balanced way to protect the well-being of the local community.

Tourism in Mallorca has had a mixed effect in preserving local culture and traditions. On one hand, it has helped keep many traditions alive by attracting visitors to traditional festivities and local celebrations, giving international visibility and relevance to aspects such as the island's typical music, gastronomy and architecture. This has driven the restoration of historic buildings and the promotion of local products.However, it has also brought challenges. The need to adapt traditions to attract tourists can affect their authenticity. Sometimes celebrations are modified or commercialized in ways that lose part of their original essence. In addition, saturation in certain areas can change the way residents experience and live their customs.To address these challenges, responsible tourism practices are being promoted that seek to respect and preserve Mallorcan culture, fostering a balance between tourism development and cultural authenticity.

Puerto Pollensa was originally a small fishing port known as "Port de Pollença", which served the town of Pollensa. For centuries, the area was a quiet place with an economy based on fishing and agriculture.In the 19th century, Puerto Pollensa began to develop as a tourist destination for the island's wealthier classes and for international tourists, usually artists in search of light and scenery. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the construction of hotels and the improvement of infrastructure, such as the port and roads, attracted more tourists. During the 20th century, Puerto Pollensa experienced a significant boom. In the 1960s and 1970s, mass tourism took hold on the island, and Puerto Pollensa became one of the favourite destinations in Mallorca. The construction of apartments, hotels and a wide range of tourist services transformed the port into a thriving tourist area.Today, Puerto Pollensa is known for its beautiful harbour, fine sandy beaches and vibrant tourist atmosphere. Despite development, it has managed to maintain a quaint charm and relaxed atmosphere. The promenade, boutiques, restaurants and cultural events, such as the music festival and local festivities, continue to attract tourists and locals. gs

Puig de Randa is a mountain located in the centre of Mallorca, famous for its panoramic views and its historical and religious significance. With a height of 543 metres, it has been a significant place since ancient times.
Its location is believed to have been important for various cultures that inhabited Mallorca before the arrival of the Romans. However, the place began to gain relevance in medieval times.
During the Middle Ages, Puig de Randa became an important spiritual and religious centre.
In the 20th century, Puig de Randa established itself as a destination of interest for both tourists and pilgrims. The mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the island. In addition, the monasteries have been restored and are used for both spiritual retreats and cultural events. Today, Puig de Randa is a popular spot for hikers, nature lovers and cyclists looking for a rewarding experience in nature and enjoying the panoramic views from the top, as from there you can see 360º of Mallorca and the entire Serra de Tramuntana.

The Cap de Formentor road, one of the most spectacular routes in Mallorca was built by the engineer Antonio Parietti in 1925.
The road was designed to connect the port of Pollensa with the Formentor lighthouse. Its construction was a monumental challenge due to the mountainous terrain and rugged coastline, and required a great effort of engineering. Along its route, it offers stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the coast, becoming an attraction for both tourists and lovers of natural scenery.
Today, the Cap de Formentor road is known for its winding curves and breathtaking views, and is one of the most iconic routes in Mallorca, offering a unique experience.

The Balearic Islands archipelago is made up of five main islands: Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formentera and Cabrera. There are also several smaller islands and islets, such as the island of Sa Dragonera.

Modern tourism in Mallorca began to develop in the 1950s and 1960s, transforming the island into an internationally renowned tourist destination. Several factors contributed to this tourism boom.

1. Post-War Infrastructure Improvements

After World War II, significant investment was made in improving the island's infrastructure. This included the construction of new airports, roads, and ports, which made it easier for tourists to visit. In 1960, Palma de Mallorca Airport was opened, facilitating access to the island and leading to a massive increase in visitors.

2. Promotion of Mallorca as a Tourist Destination

The Spanish government and local authorities in Mallorca actively promoted the island as a tourist destination. Marketing campaigns highlighted the island's beautiful beaches, Mediterranean climate, rich culture, and historical heritage, all of which attracted international attention.

3. Economic Growth in Europe

During the 1950s and 1960s, many European countries experienced remarkable economic growth. As the economies of these countries prospered, citizens found themselves with more disposable income and a greater desire to travel. Mallorca, with its affordability and accessibility, became an appealing destination for Europeans seeking holidays.

4. Rise of Package Holidays

Travel agencies and tour operators began offering all-inclusive holiday packages, which combined transport, accommodation, and activities into one convenient offering. Mallorca became a key destination for these packages due to its tourist appeal and ability to accommodate large numbers of visitors.

5. Natural Beauty and Climate

The combination of Mallorca's stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear blue sea, the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, and charming historic villages made the island an irresistible destination. Additionally, its warm and sunny climate for most of the year attracted tourists looking to escape the cold winters in other parts of Europe.

6. Growth of the Hotel Industry

The increase in tourist demand spurred the development of the hotel industry on the island. Numerous hotels, resorts, and other accommodations were built to meet the growing needs of tourists. The variety of options, from luxury hotels to budget accommodations, made Mallorca accessible to different types of travelers.

Deià is a village located on the northwest coast of Mallorca, in the Serra de Tramuntana. Its name is derived from the Arabic "Ad-Daya", meaning "village", and reflects its past under Muslim rule before the Christian conquest in the 13th century.

Following the conquest of Mallorca by King James I of Aragon in 1229, Deià was repopulated by Christians and developed as a small farming and fishing community. The village is characterised by its stone houses with red-tiled roofs and narrow cobbled streets, which have maintained their traditional charm over the centuries.

Deià has been a magnet for artists, writers and musicians since the early 20th century. One of the most famous residents was the English poet and novelist Robert Graves, who moved to Deià in 1929. Graves found inspiration in the peaceful surroundings and natural beauty of the place, and his presence attracted other artists and writers to the village. His house, Ca n'Alluny, has been converted into a museum dedicated to his life and work, and remains an important cultural landmark.

Deià's bohemian and creative atmosphere continues to attract artists and celebrities from around the world. In addition to its artistic legacy, the village offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains. Cala de Deià is a popular spot for locals and visitors.

Today, Deià has a population of 850 inhabitants who cleverly combine agriculture, crafts and the visual arts with tourism and a very controlled construction appropriate to its impressive landscape, an asset that the locals wish to preserve by all possible means.

Valldemossa, a picturesque village in Mallorca's Serra de Tramuntana, has a fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. Its name comes from an Arab nobleman named Mussa, and following the Christian conquest of Mallorca in the 13th century, it developed into an important settlement.In 1399, the Real Cartuja de Valldemossa was founded, a monastery that became the heart of the village. Valldemossa achieved international fame in the 19th century when composer Frédéric Chopin and writer George Sand spent a winter there. Although their stay was difficult, Sand wrote "A Winter in Mallorca", drawing attention to the place. Today, Valldemossa is a popular tourist destination, known for its cobbled streets, stone houses and beautiful scenery. The Cartuja remains a main attraction, and the legacy of St. Catherine Thomàs, Mallorca's only native saint, is celebrated with devotion. The village combines its rich history with an active cultural life, offering a unique experience that mixes history, culture and natural beauty.

Sa Calobra, known for its stunning road in the Serra de Tramuntana, has a total of 26 corners on its descent to the port. This road is famous for its spectacular road which is an exciting challenge for drivers and cyclists. The curves are part of a route that winds through the mountains and offers stunning panoramic views of the Mallorcan landscape.

Sa Calobra is one of the most fascinating spots of Mallorca. Located in the Serra de Tramuntana, its name, which means "the snake" in Mallorcan, honours the twisty road with 26 curves that leads to the port.

Before the construction of the road in the 1930s, Sa Calobra was a rather isolated place, accessible only by sea or by difficult mountain paths.In 2003, due to the interest represented by its fauna and flora, where more than 300 species are found, it was declared a "Natural Monument" by the Balearic Government. The construction of the road transformed the place, turning it into a popular tourist destination. The port, with its beach and impressive mountain surroundings, attracts visitors from all over the world. In addition, the Torrent de Pareis, a gorge that flows into the sea near the port, is a great place for hikers and adventurers.

Its twisty road with its curves and positive gradient, as well as the incredible views that can be enjoyed from it, attracts thousands of cyclists every year in search of exciting challenges.

The Formentor Lighthouse, located at the north of Mallorca is one of the most iconic and useful structures for navigation on the island.

The history of the Formentor Lighthouse began in the late 19th century. It was built between 1857 and 1863 due to the growing need for a light guide for ships sailing through the dangerous waters on the north of Mallorca. The construction of the lighthouse was driven by concern over the numerous shipwrecks that occurred in this part of the sea.

Its construction required bringing all materials and equipment by hand, as access to Formentor cape was very difficult due to its terrain. The lighthouse tower, which rises to around 210 metres above sea level, is made of stone.

The flashing light of the lighthouse is visible from a great distance, and its presence is crucial for safe navigation in the area.

The Formentor Lighthouse is also an attraction for visitors. The view from the lighthouse is stunning, offering spectacular panoramic views of the sea and the coast, and it has become a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

In addition, the road that runs from Puerto Pollença to the lighthouse has become one of the essential routes for any cyclist visiting the island.

The Caves of Drach, located on the east coast of Mallorca near the town of Porto Cristo, are one of the most impressive natural formations on the island.

The caves were formed millions of years ago through the action of water on rock, creating a series of underground galleries and chambers. Although the natural formation of the caves is an ancient geological process, their discovery and exploration are relatively recent.

Interest in the Caves of Drach began in the 19th century when they were fully discovered.

One of the most outstanding features of the Caves of Drach is Lake Martel, one of the largest underground lakes in the world. This lake, along with the stalactite and stalagmite formations, is one of the main attractions for visitors. A path was built to facilitate access and visits, and since then, the caves have become a major tourist destination.

Today, the Caves of Drach are famous for their spectacular geological formations and guided tours. The magic of the caves continues to attract tourists from all over the world, who come to admire their natural beauty and experience the feeling of exploring an impressive underground world.

Sóller, in the northwest of Mallorca, is a charming town with a rich history dating back to ancient times. Since Roman times and the Islamic era, Sóller has been a place of importance, but its significant development began after the Christian conquest in the 13th century. The construction of the Church of Sant Bartomeu and the prosperity of the citrus trade in the 19th century were key moments in its history.

The arrival of the Sóller Railway in 1912, still in operation today, marked the economic boom of the town, facilitating the transport of products and encouraging tourism. Today, Sóller is known for its natural beauty, modernist architecture and cultural life. Sóller is a very special destination in Mallorca, where history, culture and stunning scenery come together.

The Sanctuary of Sant Salvador in Felanitx is a special place in Mallorca with a history dating back to 1348. Originally built as a small hermitage, the sanctuary was expanded and transformed into a church over the centuries. It is situated on a hill offering a panoramic view of the island.

This sanctuary has been an important pilgrimage centre for the inhabitants of Mallorca, especially during the festivity of Sant Salvador on 6 August. The image of Sant Salvador is highly venerated and the place remains a meeting point for faith and spirituality. In addition, every year it attracts many cyclists who come in search of a challenge as climbing the road to Sant Salvador is no easy task.

The Alcudia Walls are a historical treasure in the north of Mallorca, with a history that reflects centuries of change and evolution. Although the city of Alcudia has Roman roots, the current walls were built in the Middle Ages. King James II ordered the construction of the walls in 1362 to protect the city from pirate attacks and invaders.

Over time, the defensive importance of the walls diminished, and the city began to expand beyond its old fortifications in the 19th century, when the wall collapsed. However, significant parts of the walls have been preserved and restored, allowing visitors to walk on them and enjoy the panoramic views.

Today, the Alcudia Walls are not only a tourist attraction but also a symbol of the city's rich history and culture. The old town, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, maintains medieval charm and hosts cultural events and markets that keep tradition alive.

Bellver Castle is located 3 km from the city centre of Palma and is 112.6 m above sea level.

The castle was built between 1300 and 1311 by order of King James II of Majorca. Its innovative design features a circular structure that was unusual in European fortifications of the time. This design was not only aesthetically impressive, but also effective for defence. The castle stands on a 112-metre-high hill, which gave it a strategic position to control the bay of Palma and protect the city from possible invasions.

Initially, Bellver Castle was conceived as a royal residence. James II and his successors used it as a palace. However, the history of the castle soon became complicated by the political conflicts in the region. In 1717 it became a military prison for numerous French soldiers and officers defeated in the Battle of Bailén. In 1821, the castle was temporarily converted into a mint. The last period as a prison was during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1938), when more than 800 Republicans were prisoners at Bellver.

In the 20th century, the castle suffered a significant transformation. In 1931, during the Second Spanish Republic, the castle was handed over to Palma City Council and declared a historical-artistic monument. Since then, a series of restorations have been done to preserve its structure and turn it into a cultural and tourist attraction.

Bellver Castle is not only famous for its unique architecture and military history, but also for the stunning views it offers of Palma and its bay. Its name, "Bellver", comes from old Catalan and means "beautiful view", a name that remains valid today.

The history of the Lluc Monastery begins in the 13th century with a charming legend. It is said that a young shepherd, who had been converted to Christianity, found an image of the Virgin Mary in a cave. This image was moved to a local church. However, the image mysteriously disappeared and reappeared in the same place where it was found, which was understood as a divine sign to build a sanctuary there.

A small hermitage was built on the site of the apparition. Over time, devotion grew and the hermitage became a very popular pilgrimage centre. Already in the 14th century, a larger church was built to accommodate the multitude of pilgrims who came to the place. The fame of Lluc Monastery did not stop growing, consolidating itself as the main centre of Marian devotion in Mallorca.

The monastery has been expanded and restored on several occasions over the centuries. The current basilica, dating from the 17th century, is a jewel of the Baroque and houses the venerated image of the Virgin of Lluc.

As well as being a religious centre, a singing school, known as the Escolanía de Lluc, was created in the 16th century to train young people in music and liturgy. This school, called "Els Blauets" because of the colour of its habits (blue), is one of the oldest in Europe and is still active today.

The natural environment surrounding the Lluc Monastery is impressive, with mountains and forests making it a popular destination not only for pilgrims, but also for nature lovers, hikers and cyclists. The routes that start from the monastery allow you to enjoy the beauty of the Serra de Tramuntana.

The Lonja de Palma is one of the most emblematic buildings in Palma de Mallorca, and a magnificent example of civil Gothic architecture. Its historical relevance is deeply linked to the economic and commercial development of the city during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

1. Construction and Design

The Lonja de Palma, also known as Sa Llotja in Mallorcan, was built between 1426 and 1452 by the architect Guillem Sagrera, who also worked on the construction of the Palma Cathedral. Originally, the Lonja was designed to serve as the headquarters for the merchants who played a crucial role in the island's economy.

2. Architectural Features

The building itself is a masterpiece of Mediterranean Gothic architecture. Its façade features a series of arches and windows that give it a majestic and balanced appearance. Inside, the grand hall was intended to host meetings, commercial transactions, and other important events, reflecting the building's role as a commercial hub.

3. Historical Significance

The Lonja de Palma is not only architecturally significant, but also holds great importance in the history of Mallorca. During the 14th and 15th centuries, Palma became a major trading center in the Mediterranean. The creation of the Lonja symbolized the economic rise of the city and the growing importance of merchants in Mallorcan society. The building served as a meeting point for both local and international merchants, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.

4. Changing Functions Over Time

As the centuries passed, the Lonja ceased to function as a commercial center. By the 19th century, it was repurposed for various military and administrative activities. The building has undergone several restorations over the years to preserve its structure and architectural integrity.

5. Cultural and Touristic Importance Today

Today, the Lonja de Palma is an important tourist and cultural attraction. The building hosts temporary art exhibitions and cultural events, and its stunning architecture continues to impress visitors. Located in the heart of Palma, close to the port and other historical sites, it is a must-see for those wishing to understand the rich history of the city.

The history of Palma Cathedral, known as La Seu, began in 1229, after King James I of Aragon conquered Mallorca. After the conquest, he ordered the consecration of the former main mosque to the Virgin Mary as a temple for Christian worship.

The construction of La Seu lasted for several centuries. Although most of the main structure was completed in the 14th century, work continued until the 1630s

What really catches the eye of La Seu is its impressive architecture. It's huge rose window known as "The Eye of the Gothic", it's one of the largest in the world at almost 13 metres in diameter. This rose window creates wonderful light effects inside, especially during the summer and winter solstices. The central nave reaches a height of 44 metres, making it one of the tallest in Europe. Furthermore, the 14 side chapels, each with its own style and decoration, add great artistic diversity.

Over the years, La Seu has been artistically intervened. One of the most notable interventions was the one by Antoni Gaudí at the beginning of the 20th century. Between 1904 and 1914, Gaudí made a series of renovations, including relocating the choir and improving the interior lighting, always respecting the original Gothic style. More recently, the Mallorcan artist Miquel Barceló left his mark on the chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, completing in 2007 an impressive ceramic mural depicting scenes from the Gospel and the Apocalypse.

The Cathedral of Palma is not only a religious symbol, but also a cultural and historical one. It has witnessed many historic events and remains a place of great importance for the Mallorcans. Every year, it hosts liturgical celebrations, concerts and cultural events that attract thousands of visitors.

The Sierra de Tramuntana in Mallorca is a historic and natural gem in the northwest coast of the island. With a history dating back to prehistoric times, these mountains have witnessed human presence since the Talayotic era, leaving traces of ancient settlements and stone towers across its territory.

During the Roman era, these mountains were used for agriculture and the exploitation of natural resources, while in the Middle Ages, under Arab rule, strategic castles and watchtowers were fortified and still stand today. This combination of ancient and medieval history has left a mark on local architecture, with picturesque villages such as Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller and Fornalutx attracting artists and writers over the centuries.In the modern era, the Sierra de Tramuntana have been recognized for their exceptional natural beauty and unique biodiversity. It's a UNESCO World Heritage since 2011.Today, it's a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts, offering panoramic views, trails and an enriching experience that captures the unique essence of Mallorca.