Visiting Monti Sion
This church is in many ways a symbol of sociocultural influences in Palma.
The church of Monti Sion was built on top of the former Jewish main synagogue, by the Jesuits who came to Mallorca in 1561. The construction was started already in 1571. The Jesuits were highly disliked by the royal crown, because of their major influence both economically and culturally on the people, who suddenly saw a different way of living and a new power to worship. This led to suppression of them from 1767 to 1815.
Architecture of the Monti Sion church
The church is one of the most splendid examples of Baroque stylistics on Mallorca. On the main facade, which is one of the most outstanding features of the church, you can see the tympanum frame a large coat of arms, supported by two angels. This is the coat of arms of Ramon de Verí, founder of the church.
On each side of the tympanum, you can see statues of the first Jesuit saints: St. Ignatius of Loyola on the left, and Francis Xavier on the right. An image of the Immaculate Conception crowns the portal, over the half-moon with a representation of the devil in the form of a beast and, higher up, the coat of arms of St. Ignatius. A semi-circular gutter protects the ensemble. In the upper part there is a rose window with plain mouldings and a triangular pediment.
The floor plan of the church, consists of a single nave with 6 side chapels on each side. The roof of the nave is a barrel vault with lunettes, supported by fluted pilasters.
Special interest in the church
1. The tomb of Ramon de Verí is on the left of the presbytery.
2. The first chapel on the left hand side contains the tomb of saint Alphonsus Rodriguez, who for many years was the porter of Monti Sion, until his death in 1617.
3. The main altar piece was designed by Camilo Silvestre Perino and started in 1607.
Get directions to church of Monti Sion
Palma is the capital of Mallorca and seat of the Balearic government. Palma was founded during the occupation of the Roman empire, about 123 BC, and later developed by the Moors and Catalans. Palma has several times been awarded best place in the world to live; it is a city of great diversity, cultural heritage and commercial activity, making it an attractive city to a broad audience. Palma is one of the best places in Spain to go shopping, all the new arrivals from other Mediterranean capitals arrive here before other places in the world, plus, there are hundreds of local specialty boutiques.
The rich history of Palma has left an incredible amount of landmarks and points of interest to discover i.e. the Arabian baths, the cathedral, the Bellver castle, the Almudaina palace etc., as well as hundreds of other unique constructions perfect for sightseeing in the city.
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Mallorca's Top sightseeing attractions
Palma Cathedral
Palma cathedral La Seu is an amazing sight, both from the inside and outside. Palma cathedral is one of the biggest in Europe, and great artists like Gaudi have worked on the amazing temple. There are guided tours and you can even visit the rooftop terraces offering magical views.
The Antique Train
The antique train is a great attraction for young and adults. The ride takes you through some of the most beautiful areas of the Tramuntana, passing through orange plantations, olive groves and green valleys. The authentic feeling of the old marhogany cars bumping along the rails completes the experience.
Castell de Bellver
Castell de Bellver is a unique castle, due to its round shape and splendid location on a hilltop above Palma's bay. Much of Mallorca's most dramatic times are linked to the Bellver castle, and you will also find Palma's historical museum here. It's a great attraction for all ages.
Cuevas del Drach
Cuevas del Drach (Dragon Caves) is a great attraction to visit for all ages. Inside the stalagmite and stalactite caves in Porto Cristo, you will meet a true wonder of nature, along with the biggest underground lake in Europe on which an orchester will play a beautiful live concert on before you can enjoy a short ride.
Santuari de Lluc
Santuari de Lluc is a monastery situated deep in the highest areas of the Tramuntana, in divine natural surroundings. Lluc is a great attraction for everyone, you can discover the ethnological museum, enjoy a concert by the famous child choir, visit the botanical gardens and see the holy Madonna.
La Granja
A visit to the ethnological museum of La Granja in the mountain village of Esporles takes you on an interesting journey back in time to discover how life in mallorca was for the wealthy landowners and their servants. La Granja is a museum suitable for all ages, there is plenty to see and do here for young and adults.
Sa Dragonera
Sa Dragonera is an island and protected nature reserve just off the coast of Sant Elm, Andratx. Sa Dragonera is home to indigenious lizards that are very human-friendly, and has become a trademark of Mallorca. About on the beautiful island, you can walk along multiple trails to some of the most amazing vantage points and find ancient watchtowers from the time of pirates.
Almudaina Palace
The royal Almudaina Palace is closely linked to multiple epochs in the history of Mallorca. The ancient palace was built as the seat for the Moorish governor back in the 10th century, and was the first building in the city of Palma as we know it today. Inside you will discover an impressive collection of ancient artifacts and artworks, along with the authentic surroundings of the palace that is now used by the royalties of Spain when visiting the island.