Pollença Old Town | Pollenca

Information

Landmark: Pollença Old Town
City: Pollenca
Country: Balearic Islands
Continent: Europe

Pollença Old Town, Pollenca, Balearic Islands, Europe

Pollença Old Town is a historic urban center located in the municipality of Pollença, on the island of Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain.

This area preserves a significant portion of its original medieval layout and architecture.

Visual Characteristics

The town is characterized by narrow, winding cobblestone streets. Buildings are primarily constructed from local sandstone, exhibiting a warm, ochre hue. Roofs are typically tiled in red clay. Architectural styles range from Romanesque to Gothic influences, with many structures featuring arched doorways and small, shuttered windows. The town is built on a gentle slope, culminating in the Calvari Steps at its highest point.

Location & Access Logistics

Pollença Old Town is situated approximately 6 kilometers inland from the northern coast of Mallorca. Access by road is via the Ma-10 highway, exiting towards Pollença. From Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), it is approximately a 45-minute drive (55 km). Limited on-street parking is available within the old town, with larger paid parking lots located on the outskirts, such as the one near the Plaça Major. Public bus services connect Pollença to other towns on the island, with the main bus station located near the town center.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The origins of Pollença date back to Roman times, with significant development occurring during the medieval period. The town's layout reflects its defensive needs and agricultural context. The surrounding landscape is Mediterranean scrubland, characterized by olive groves, pine trees, and low-lying garrigue vegetation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Climb the 365 steps of the Calvari steps to reach the 18th-century El Calvari chapel. Explore the Plaça Major, the town's central square, and visit the parish church of Nostra Senyora dels Àngels. Browse the local artisan shops and galleries. Participate in the weekly market held every Sunday in the Plaça Major.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in public squares and at cafes. Shade is provided by narrow streets and building overhangs. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good throughout the old town. Numerous cafes, restaurants, and small supermarkets are located within the old town and on its periphery.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light offers optimal illumination of the sandstone buildings. The best months for visiting are April, May, September, and October, when temperatures are mild (18-25°C) and tourist numbers are lower than in peak summer. Summer months (June-August) can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C.

Facts & Legends

A local legend states that the town was founded by the Greek hero Boetus. The annual "Festa del Santíssim Crist de la Sang" in November commemorates a miracle involving a statue of Christ that reportedly bled during a pirate attack.