Cathedral of Mallorca Palma — About, History, Tours & Visitor Info (2025)
Discover La Seu, the Cathedral of Mallorca, Palma’s golden Gothic landmark overlooking the Mediterranean. Learn what makes this seafront cathedral unique, how it grew from a medieval vow into an icon, and how to visit with skip-the-line tickets, walking tours, and easy day trips into Palma’s Old Town.
About the Cathedral of Mallorca (La Seu)
The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, commonly known as La Seu, is the great Gothic cathedral that dominates Palma’s waterfront. Built in warm golden sandstone, it rises above the old city walls with flying buttresses, needle-like spires and one of the largest rose windows in the world.
La Seu is the seat of the Bishop of Mallorca and one of the finest examples of Catalan Gothic architecture. Its vast interior has a remarkably tall central nave, colourful stained glass that floods the space with light, and chapels transformed in the early 20th century with designs by Antoni Gaudí and later contemporary artists.
What Makes La Seu Special
Many Mediterranean cities have impressive cathedrals, but Palma’s feels particularly dramatic thanks to its position right above the sea and its sheer height inside.
- Striking seafront setting above Parc de la Mar and the old city walls.
- Huge central nave with a height of around 44 m, unusually tall for a Gothic church.
- Famous rose window nicknamed the “Eye of the Gothic”, lighting the interior in colour.
Where It Fits in Your Mallorca Trip
The cathedral sits beside the Royal Palace of La Almudaina and Palma’s Old Town, making it the natural starting point for a day of sightseeing in the city. From here, you can wander into narrow medieval streets, shop in local markets, or head to the harbour promenade.
Good pairing: Start with a morning visit inside the cathedral, continue with a guided Palma Old Town walk, then relax on a terrace facing the bay at sunset.
Brief History & Timeline of the Cathedral of Mallorca
La Seu stands on the site of a former mosque from the Islamic period of Mallorca. After the Christian conquest, the island’s new rulers set out to build a cathedral that would be seen from land and sea as a symbol of faith and power.
- 1229 — King James I of Aragon conquers Palma from Muslim rule and, according to tradition, vows to build a grand church dedicated to the Virgin Mary if his fleet survives a storm at sea.
- 13th–14th centuries — Construction of the new Gothic cathedral begins on the former mosque site. The building takes shape over several generations, led by Catalan and local master builders.
- 15th–16th centuries — Work continues on the nave, chapels and facades. The cathedral develops its distinctive three-aisled plan and lofty interior supported by slender columns.
- 1601 — The Cathedral of Mallorca is finally consecrated, marking the end of major structural works after centuries of construction.
- 19th century — Restorations and structural repairs respond to storm damage and the natural ageing of the stone, especially along the exposed seafront side.
- 1904–1914 — Architect Antoni Gaudí is invited to redesign parts of the interior. He modifies the choir area, lighting, and some furnishings to make the space feel lighter and more focused on the altar.
- Late 20th–21st century — Modern interventions, including contemporary artworks in some chapels, are added while conservation projects protect the stonework and stained glass.
Today: La Seu is both an active place of worship and one of the most visited landmarks in Mallorca, welcoming travellers who come for architecture, history, sea views, and the play of light inside.
Tours, Tickets & Experiences at the Cathedral of Mallorca
You can visit La Seu independently with a ticket, or combine it with a wider Palma city experience. These GetYourGuide options are useful starting points for planning your cathedral day:
Cathedral of Mallorca Skip-the-Line Ticket
Pre-book a skip-the-line entry ticket to the Cathedral of Mallorca and the adjoining diocesan museum. Explore the vast nave, chapels, cloister and rooftop views (when included) at your own pace.
Mallorca: Transfer to Palma Self-Guided City Tour
Staying in a resort area? Join a transfer to Palma with free time in the city. Use the included map and tips to visit the cathedral, stroll through Old Town, and enjoy cafés and shopping before returning to your hotel.
Palma Old Town & Cathedral Day Plan
Combine a morning inside the cathedral with a do-it-yourself Old Town walk. Start at La Seu, then continue past La Almudaina Palace, Arab baths, and atmospheric lanes around Plaça Major.
Palma Highlights from the Coast
If your ship or coach drops you near the harbour, it’s a short scenic walk up to the cathedral. Combine a Palma highlights tour from the port (or transfer) with time inside La Seu and a drink overlooking the bay.
Rooftop & Special Access (When Available)
At certain times of year, special visits may include rooftop terraces or extra chapels, offering closer views of the stonework and sweeping panoramas over Palma and the bay. Check your chosen ticket description for current options.
Audio Guides & On-Site Interpretation
Many visitors enhance their experience with audio guides, leaflets, or information panels available inside. These explain the symbolism, saints, royal tombs and architectural details you might otherwise miss.
Flexibility tip: Some tickets and tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before. This can be helpful if you’re watching the weather or juggling beach days with city trips.
What You’ll Experience Inside the Cathedral of Mallorca
Highlights & Must-See Features
Even a short visit can feel full of details. Look out for these key elements:
- The enormous central nave with its vertical height and tall, slender columns that draw your eyes upward.
- The main rose window at the east end, famous for its size and colourful glass, especially striking in the morning.
- Side chapels featuring Gothic, Baroque and modern decoration, including later interventions inspired by Gaudí’s ideas.
- The Royal Chapel and tombs associated with the Crown of Aragon and Mallorca’s rulers.
- Views from the terraces or upper levels (when included), taking in Palma’s rooftops, harbour and surrounding hills.
Atmosphere & Architectural Style
La Seu combines the sturdy presence of a fortress with the lightness of Gothic design. Inside, the stone feels both heavy and luminous as the sun moves across the stained glass.
- A blend of Catalan Gothic forms with influences from northern Europe and the Mediterranean.
- Strong vertical lines, ribbed vaults, and large windows that soften the massive walls.
- A dynamic interior that changes character depending on the time of day and the angle of the sun.
Tip: If possible, visit once in the morning and again later in the afternoon on another day—light and colour feel completely different each time.
Insider Tips for Visiting La Seu in Palma
Best Time to Visit
Mornings on weekdays are usually calmer, especially outside peak summer months and cruise ship arrival times. In high season, book an early or late time slot to avoid the busiest period around late morning.
Photography & Respect
The cathedral is an active place of worship. Photography rules can vary, but expect restrictions during services and in certain chapels. Always follow signage, switch your phone to silent, and keep voices low.
How Long You Need
Most visitors spend around 45–90 minutes inside, longer if they linger over chapels, exhibits, or take a rooftop tour. If you’re combining La Seu with a full Old Town exploration, plan for at least half a day in central Palma.
What to Wear & Bring
As with many cathedrals, modest dress is expected: shoulders and knees covered is a good guideline. Comfortable shoes help on stone floors and stairs. In summer, the interior is cooler than outside, but a small bottle of water for after your visit is useful.
Visitor Cheatsheet — Cathedral of Mallorca, Palma
Location
La Seu stands beside the Bay of Palma, above Parc de la Mar and next to La Almudaina Palace. It’s an easy walk from Palma’s main shopping streets, the harbour promenade, and many bus stops.
Getting There
From resorts and other towns, you can reach Palma by bus, car or organized transfer. Once in the city, follow signs toward the cathedral and seafront; the building is visible from many points around the bay.
Tickets & Opening Hours
Entry is ticketed on most sightseeing days, with different schedules for tourist visits and religious services. Hours can change by season and for special ceremonies, so always check your chosen ticket page or the official cathedral website before visiting.
Services & Mass
Regular Mass and liturgical events take place in the cathedral. If you wish to attend a service, look for updated times on the official site and be prepared for different access routes or areas reserved for worshippers.
Bags, Security & Accessibility
Security checks are common at busy times. Large backpacks or bulky items may be restricted. There are accessible entrances and routes, but some historic stairways and terraces may not be suitable for all visitors—check the latest details if you have mobility needs.
Pairing With Other Sights
Combine your cathedral visit with La Almudaina Palace, Palma’s Old Town streets, Arab baths, Plaça Major, and a stroll along the harbour or Parc de la Mar for a full-day city experience.
Ready to Plan Your Cathedral of Mallorca Visit?
Build your ideal Palma day: secure skip-the-line tickets for the Cathedral of Mallorca, add time for Old Town lanes and harbour views, and experience one of Spain’s most beautiful seafront cathedrals in 2025.