The parish church of Mother Mary, is literally the biggest sight in Sineu
The church is the very first thing you will notice, when approaching Sineu from either of the roads leading to the town because of its amazing dimensions.
Just 7 years after the Catalan/Aragon reconquest of Mallorca, in 1236, the first parish church was raised in Sineu. The church was established on behalf of Ferrer de Pallerès, bishop of Tarragonia, southern Catalonia.
In May 1505, a terrible fire destroyed big parts of the church, which took many years to restore, and made the foundation of the temple you see today.
In the years between 1880 and 1882, the parish church underwent some rather extensive works, resulting in an expansion of it. The works was done by architect, Joaquim Pavia, who added the beautiful tympanum to the frontispiece, as well as the rather unorthodox octagon shaped dome on top of the church.
At the main entrance of the church, notice the archivolt, supported by columns with carved nature motifs on them. Next to the entrance, you will see a cross hanging, symbolizing the Via Crucis, Jesus’ way to the Golgata hill.
The massive bell tower of the church is among the highest of Mallorca’s churches, an amazing 7 store tower crowned with a pyramid spear.
A local myth of Sineu, tells of es Pern del Món, translated into “the screw of the world”, which is located under the bell tower of the church. Every new years eve, the mayor and the rector meets here to oil the screw, because if they don’t, the world will go under.
As with other churches of Majorca, I can only advice you to step inside, and have a look at the many treasures collected through time. Parts of elder altarpieces are preserved in here, such as the one made by Gaspar Gener, between 1571-1581. There is also remains of the beautiful baroque altarpiece of Our Lady of Rosary, and a piece displaying Saint Martin.
In the rectory of Sineu, just next door from the church, you will find the original image of Santa Maria, made by famous painter Gabriel Möger, in 1509.
Get directions to Església de Santa Maria in Sineu
Sencelles
Sineu is to many inhabitants, namely the local inhabitants, the very heart of Mallorca due to the central location and the many historical monuments and buildings in the town. Sineu is perhaps most famous for its Wednesday tourist market where the narrow silent streets are turned into a commerce mecca of hundreds of thousands of people bargaining. But Sineu is actually one of the greater places to visit and go sightseeing in Mallorca, as you will find a nice handful of interesting constructions such as the Santa Maria church, the former Minims convent, the former royal palace, Gothic hospital etc., all places that tell a story from a period in the history of Sineu and the making of this town. Moreover, Sineu is a great place to discover some traditional Mallorcan cuisine as you will find a number of cellers and bars that serves delicious dishes worth traveling for. Last but not least, Sineu hosts a number of annual events and happenings where local traditions are celebrated with festivities and fairs, an excellent opportunity to feel the soul of Mallorca when it truly unfolds.
Sineu things to do, market and hotel
More Points of Interest to visit in Sineu
Make sure to also visit these nearby areas
Other churches to visit 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.