Historical Sights at Pollenca

Pollenca lies on the north-eastern side of Lluc through a 20 kilometer wind around the mountains. Pollenca is a serene and charming small town nestled in the midst of the Serra de Tramuntana hills, which flatten out to the coast.

The original purpose of Pollenca was to act as a lookout for pirates when it served as a port. It was a successful strategy that avoided much destruction on the area. This medieval town stands with 18th century hard stone houses on winding streets.

Plaça Major is the town’s main square which caters to a splatter of serene cafés with Nostra Senyora dels Àngels church close by, impressive with its dour façade and magnificent sun-bleached stones surrounding a rose window.

Historical Attractions

The town’s main attraction is Via Crucis which means ‘the Way of the Cross.’ It is a long and steep stairway, beautifully crafted with stones against the amazing cypress trees which have been there for ages. It goes upwards to El Calvari, known as the Calvary hill, that lies at the square’s north side where you will see the image of Mare de Deu; which when translated, is ‘the Mother of God.’ This is located at the foothills placed in the simple chapel at the courtyard. Although the white walls spot some terrible religious paintings, the coastal views make up for the negative impact.

When Good Friday is celebrated here, a statue of Jesus is paraded with torchlight from the chapel Oratori to the Nostra Senyora church. This is the island’s most emotion-packed religious festival.

Other historical sights include the 18th century monastery which, although not in good condition, offers a splendid view of the coast from the peak of Puig de Maria located 320 meters above the town. The monastery has fortified walls, a chapel, a courtyard, a refectory, as well as some cells with a checkered history. Now, it is owned by the Benedictines who rent out the cells as rooms to tourists.

The monastery is located at the south end of the town, along a steep 1,500 meter lane which fizzles to a cobbled foot trail. It’s about an hour’s walk to the town center.

Accommodations

Only one main accommodation is available here; that is, the Hotel Juma, which is excellent with its amenity offerings. It is a medium-sized accommodation with modern and comfortable rooms, although cheaper accommodations are available near the monastery.

Gastronomy

There are plenty of eateries in Pollença as it offers a variety of cafés as well as restaurants; the Espanyol Café offers good coffee that is strong, and snacks such as its top rating tapas.

Another restaurant, Giardino II serves excellent cuisine in French style. Some stylish restaurants that can be found in town serve delicious seafood.