Excursion to the amazing Raixa mansion, a real treat for culture lovers
The amazing mansion of Raixa was declared “place of cultural interest” back in 2002 and purchased by the Balearic government. Moreover, this mansion has been scene of famous Agata Cristie movie, Hercule Poirot.
Raixa is among the most important singular buildings on Mallorca, and a landmark in the beautiful and charming area of Bunyola.
The first count of Montenegro, Ramon Despuig i Rocaberti, purchased Raixa on the 18th of June 1660, and from that time onwards, Raixa became the emblematic family estate. In the 18th century the houses were renovated and extended by the successive counts, as it was customary during the Baroque period. Dating from that time are the leisure gardens “les Llimoneres”, “La Gruta” and “Hort Nou”, already documented in 1740.
The protagonists of the last transformation were the brothers Joan and Antoni Despuig i Dameto. The first (Palma, 1735-1813) was the 4th Count of Montenegro and 7th of Montoro. The second, Antoni, (Palma, 1745 – Lucca, 1813) pursued an ambitious ecclesiastic career which culminated with his appointment as Cardinal by the Pope Pius VII in 1803.
Cardinal Despuig is one of the most important personalities of the Enlightenment in Mallorca. He was distinguished both as a patron and as a collector of art and antiques as a result of his long stays in Italy. He sponsored excavations in the grounds of Ariccia, near Rome, between 1787 and 1796, and with the objects brought to light and some others acquired by him, he created a Museum of classical sculpture that he installed in Raixa. The sculptors Pascual Cortes, Luis Melis and Francesco Lazzarini worked there. Nowadays part of this collection is on display at the Bellver castle
Get directions to the Raixa estate in Bunyola
Bunyola is cosy and tranquil mountain town located in a scenic and beautiful green valley in the Tramuntana mountains. Bunyola has a long history of being a prosperous area that used to belong to noble people like counts and emirs. Bunyola offers a fine selection of finca escapes situated on the green mountain slopes of the valley offering magical views and great location when you are of to your daily adventures, or just want to rest by the pool and take in the views and feel the inner peace spread throughout your body. Despite of the modest size, Bunyola is home to several places of interest. Go see one of the most stunning examples of architecture on the island, the Raixa finca, go explore the magical Alfabia gardens, or let yourself be seduced in a 1001 nights adventure at the world-famous Son Amar finca. Bunyola is located about 25 minutes from Palma by car, and is an excellent choice of holiday base for couples and friends traveling without children.
Bunyola things to do, market, places to stay
Other attraction to find in Bunyola
Jardines de Alfabia beautiful botanical garden
More wonderful places to discover in Tramuntana
Andratx things to do and accommodation
Port de Andratx things to do and accommodation
Banyalbufar things to do and accommodation
Bunyola things to do and accommodation
Cala Sant Vicenc things to do and accommodation
Calvia things to do and accommodation
Camp de Mar things to do and accommodation
Deia things to do and accommodation
Estellencs things to do and accommodation
Esporles things to do and accommodation
Magaluf beach, things to do and accommodation
Palmanova things to do, beach and accommodation
Peguera things to do and accommodation
Pollenca things to do and accommodation
Port de Pollenca things to do and accommodation
Portals Nous things to do and accommodation
Puigpunyent things to do and accommodation
Sant Elm things to do and accommodation
Santa Ponca things to do and accommodation
Soller things to do and accommodation
More stunning architecture to see in Mallorca
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.