Palma de Mallorca, Spain by Margot Justes

This was my first visit to Palma de Mallorca, one of the Balearic Islands of Spain. It boasts a beautiful Catalan style Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria, or simply known as La Seu.  Started in the early 13^th century, and finally finished in the early 17th century, it is a massive structure.

Then a visit to the austere Bellver Castle that was a delight to visit, situated 403 ft above sea level, with gorgeous bay views of the city below. It is once again Gothic in style, built in the early 14th century. A rare circular castle that first housed the Mallorca  Kings, and now is a huge and central tourist draw.  

The tour included an overview of the city, along with a visit to the bull ring-a sport I find particularly barbaric-and skipped the inside visit, opted for a delicious coffee instead, but the building was quite beautiful.

Then it was to Son Amar, a 16^th century Mallorca manor house, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see a flamenco show.  I thought it would be a show geared towards tourists, but it turned out to be a professional dance group, and quite excellent. I love flamenco dancing, and the passionate music. Sadly, the imposing manor house was not open to tours, and a portion of it has been turned into a night club.

Pictures were not allowed during the show, but we were allowed to take them before the show started. They served us yummy Sangria and tapas, while we watched the graceful movements on stage.

Palma is also well known for the Mallorca pearls, and everywhere one turned there were  boutiques selling them. They are not formed in oysters, but are man-made, manufactured under strict condition, using glass balls, a lengthy and exact process, they are shiny, and quite beautiful. There are lower quality pearls available, some made with plastic, less attention to detail, and using similar names, it’s difficult for the average shopper to tell the difference, as always buyer beware. 

Happy travels, wherever they may take you.

Cheers,

Margot  Justes

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www.mjustes.com