Visit the terraces of Palma Cathedral: history, views and a unique experience
Climbing the terraces of Palma Cathedral is one of the most special experiences in the city. From the top of this impressive Gothic temple, popularly known as La Seu, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea, Palma’s historic center, and some of the building’s most fascinating architectural details. Beyond the views, this visit helps to better understand the history and scale of one of Europe’s most impressive Gothic cathedrals.
A bit of La Seu’s history
A bit of La Seu’s history: Palma Cathedral began construction in 1229, shortly after King James I of Aragon conquered Mallorca. According to tradition, the monarch promised to build a great temple dedicated to the Virgin if he survived a severe storm during his voyage to the island. The project was carried out over several centuries, from the 13th to the 17th century, which explains the mixture of architectural styles visible today. The predominant style, however, is Levantine Gothic, characterized by large spaces, vertical lines, and enormous windows. One of the most impressive features of the cathedral is its main rose window, considered one of the largest in the Gothic world, over 13 meters in diameter.
The terraces: a different perspective
Visiting the terraces allows you to explore the highest parts of the temple, normally inaccessible to the public. During the tour, you can closely observe: the flying buttresses and supports that hold the structure; the gargoyles, which in addition to decoration, helped channel rainwater; and the pinnacles and sculptural details on the exterior of the cathedral. From this height, you truly understand the scale of the building and the enormous engineering effort that went into its construction over 700 years ago.
The best views of Palma
One of the most impressive moments of the tour is when the panoramic view of Palma Bay opens up. From the terraces, you can see: Parc de la Mar, the Palacio de la Almudaina, Palma’s old town, and the port with the Mediterranean stretching to the horizon. It’s a perfect spot for photography and discovering the city from a completely different perspective.
A must-do visit in Palma
If you are visiting Palma and have already seen the interior of the cathedral, climbing the terraces is an experience well worth it. Not only for the views, but because it helps you understand the history, architecture, and importance that La Seu has had for the city over centuries. A different way to discover one of Mallorca’s most emblematic landmarks.
