The cathedral of Palma de Mallorca: a Gothic masterpiece
The cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, also known as La Seu, is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture and a landmark of the Balearic capital. With its imposing presence above the rooftops of the old town, it attracts visitors from all over the world and tells a rich story that dates back to the 13th century.
Historical background
Construction of the cathedral began in 1229 on the remains of a previously burnt-down mosque, immediately after the reconquest of Mallorca by King Jaume I. The west façade was not completed until 1604, which underlines the long construction period of this monumental project.
Architectural features
La Seu impresses with its Gothic architecture with a length of 121 meters and a width of 40 meters. The nave reaches a height of 44 meters, making it one of the tallest Gothic ships in Europe. Particularly noteworthy is the large rose window with a diameter of almost 14 meters, which is considered one of the largest Gothic rose windows in the world.
Palma Cathedral
Interior design and Gaudí’s influence
Between 1904 and 1914, the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí made significant changes to the interior of the cathedral. He moved the choir forward towards the royal chapel and arranged the ornately carved choir stalls from the 14th century on either side of the altar. He also had some of the walls decorated with ceramics made according to his designs by the Mallorcan company La Roqueta.
The miracle of light at La Seu
A special phenomenon, the so-called miracle of light, attracts numerous visitors every year. On 2 February and 11 November, the sunlight falls through the eastern rose window in the morning and creates a colorful reflection of light on the inner wall of the main portal below the western rose window. This spectacle visually forms a colorful figure eight and is watched by thousands of onlookers.
The organ of the cathedral
La Seu is home to Mallorca’s largest organ, which was originally built in 1328. It has four keyboards with 56 keys and a pedal with 30 keys. This organ was instrumental in the development of the Mallorcan school of organ building, which is one of the most important in the world. The International Organ Festival has been held here since 2000.
Restorations and earthquake damage
In 1851, the cathedral was severely damaged by an earthquake. Instead of restoring the destroyed parts in the original style, a neo-Gothic reworking was chosen. This led to a mixture of different architectural styles that characterize the appearance of the cathedral today.
Significance for Palma and Mallorca
La Seu is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also a central element of the identity of Palma and the whole of Mallorca. It is a symbol of the region’s rich history, cultural diversity and artistic wealth. A visit to this cathedral offers a deep insight into the past and present of the island and is an absolute must for every visitor to Mallorca.
The cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, La Seu, remains a living testimony to history, art and spirituality that has touched and inspired people’s hearts for centuries.
