The talayotic village of Ses Paisses in Artá, is one of the largest and best preserved prehistoric settlements on Mallorca
The walled perimeter and the internal structures, are in a remarkably good state. It encompasses 13.500 square meters and its walled perimeter is 374 meters long. The site was declared a Historical and Artistic Monument in 1946. The first excavations, were carried out by Italian archeologist Giovanne Lilliu. He tried to link prehistoric Balearic structures to those discovered in Sardinia.
He focused on the village central area, the talayot and all the attached structures. Highlights in this area are the hypostyle and the horseshoe-shaped room, among others. Excavation works were resumed 30 years later. The foundation of the settlement is dated circa 850 BC. It is believed that the village was built around the central Talayot. Probably, the walled perimeter dates back to circa 650-540 BC. This settlement decayed under Roman rule. We must highlight the impressive doorway and the monolith placed in front of it. Great Mallorcan poet Costa i Llobera was inspired by Ses Paisses to write the poem ‘La deixa del geni grec’ (1900).
To learn more about the talayotic culture on the Balearic islands and the history of of the local area, do visit the regional museum.
Get directions to Ses Païsses in Arta
Arta
Artà is a cultural stronghold of Mallorca, it boasts diversity and wealth in many ways. The area has been occupied by human since the Bronze Ages which has left numerous landmarks and point of interest to discover all over the municipality, such as the Talayotic settlement of ses Païsses, the pilgrimage church of Sant Salvador, the modernist architecture in Ca’n Epifani, the railway station, the Franciscan convent, the Betlem hermitage, the Llevant nature park and so much more, there is really something for everyone to enjoy in Artà. In addition to the many places to visit in the area, Artà is also home to some great restaurants and romantic petit hotels situated in historical fincas and manors.
More Points of Interest in Arta
Make sure to also visit these nearby areas for more points of interest and sights
Other prehistoric sites 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.