Pollença

Pollença, a town in northern Mallorca, offers a blend of enduring history, rich culture, and natural splendor. Located inland, approximately 6 kilometers from its port, Port de Pollença, the town is characterized by its honey-colored stone houses and narrow, winding streets.

Known as the "city of artists," Pollença has drawn a creative community since the early 20th century, captivated by the distinctive light and the embracing Tramuntana mountains. This artistic legacy is evident in the galleries and craft shops found throughout the old town.

The town provides a quieter, more traditional Mallorcan experience compared to the bustling capital of Palma or the more resort-focused Alcúdia. It serves as a base for exploring northern Mallorca, including the coastal village of Cala Sant Vicenç and the dramatic Cap de Formentor.

## Ancient Roots and Medieval Foundations Pollença's origins trace back to the Roman settlement of Pollentia, established in 123 BC near modern-day Alcúdia. The name "Pollença" itself comes from this ancient Roman town. The current town of Pollença was founded in the 13th century, approximately 6 kilometers from the coast, a strategic decision to shield it from pirate incursions.

Following the Christian reconquest of Mallorca by King James I of Aragon in 1229, the lands of present-day Pollença were granted to the Knights Templar around the 1240s, who were instrumental in shaping the town's urban structure and constructing its first church. The 13th-century church of Esglèsia de Nostra Senyora dels Àngels (Our Lady of the Angels) in Plaça Major was built by the Knights Templar. The town's medieval character is still apparent in its narrow, curving streets.

## Battles and Bravery Pollença's geographical position made it a site of significant military confrontations throughout its existence. The town resisted the Christian conquest and was the final stand for King James III of Majorca. During the 15th and 16th centuries, Pollença faced numerous pirate attacks. A particularly famous event occurred in 1550 when the Ottoman pirate Dragut assailed Pollença with 1,500 men. The local people, led by Joan Mas, courageously repelled the invaders, an act of heroism remembered annually on August 2nd with a special celebration.

## Cultural Development After the Templars, the Jesuits and Dominicans played a significant role in Pollença's life, contributing to the construction of monasteries and churches. The Convent de Sant Domingo, a former Dominican convent founded in the 16th century, now houses the Pollença Municipal Museum and hosts the esteemed Pollença Music Festival. The town's architecture largely dates from the 17th and 18th centuries, with many houses featuring narrow, close-set streets, a design carried over from medieval times. Pollença has also cultivated a reputation as a cultural center, considered Mallorca's cultural cradle and a source of inspiration for poets, artists, and musicians.

Pollença's allure resides in its blend of historic architecture and lively local existence. A visit often commences in the Plaça Major, the main square, which is lined with cafes and restaurants. Here, the 13th-century Esglèsia de Nostra Senyora dels Àngels (Our Lady of the Angels) church, constructed by the Knights Templar, stands prominently with its rose window.

One of Pollença's most recognizable features is the Calvari Steps, a 365-step stairway ascending to a small 18th-century chapel atop a hill. The climb, bordered by cypress trees, offers expansive views of the town, Puig de Maria, and Pollença Bay.

Explore the narrow, stone-paved streets of the old town, where 17th and 18th-century houses display heraldic shields and carved stone portals. The Convent de Sant Domingo, a former Dominican convent from the 16th century, is worth visiting for its Baroque cloister and the Pollença Municipal Museum, which houses archaeological finds, paintings, and sacred art.

Do not overlook the ancient Roman Bridge, or Pont Romà, at the edge of town, believed to date back to Roman times or the 15th century, spanning the Torrent de Sant Jordi. For another scenic walk, consider the Puig de Maria, a small hill with a 14th-century sanctuary at its summit, offering sweeping vistas.

The ideal time to visit Pollença for comfortable weather and fewer crowds is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to October). During these seasons, temperatures are mild, perfect for walking and exploring the old town. Summer (June to August) brings warm weather, excellent for beach activities and festivals, though it is also the busiest period. The Pollença Music Festival takes place in July and August, and the spirited La Patrona festival, with its mock battle between Moors and Christians, is celebrated in early August. Winters are quieter with mild temperatures.

Pollença is easily reached by car or bus from Palma, with the drive taking approximately 45 minutes. For those arriving by air, a ferry crossing to Mallorca is required from mainland Spain, followed by ground transport to Pollença. Once in town, the historic center is best explored on foot, with its narrow, stone-paved streets. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for ascending the Calvari Steps.

Parking can be found at a free gravel lot at Carrer de Cecili Metel, with overflow parking at Carrer de Sant Jordi, both within a short walk of Plaça Major. Many boutique hotels are available in the old town, while luxury retreats and villas are found in the surrounding countryside. The town is considered safe, and taxis are available for nighttime travel.