Although perhaps best known to many for its glorious beaches and lively nightlife, there is of course another side to Majorca. Family holidays are ideal for exploring the culture of this lovely island and a great way for children and adults to experience the differences between here and their home country. Whilst it might be part of Spain, Majorca, like so many islands has a culture and a history all its own. Visits to some of its museums, galleries and churches, not to mention taking part in the colourful festivals which are regular events here, are all great ways to get a truly authentic feel for what the island and its people are all about.
The ‘Mañana’ Culture and Palma Cathedral
If there is one thing that probably says more about Spanish culture than anything (and this applies to Majorca too), it’s that word ‘mañana’. Whilst it literally means ‘tomorrow’, in reality it is actually used to mean ‘at some point in the future’ – not particularly helpful if you’re waiting for someone to come out and do an urgent repair, but a wonderful indicator of the laid back attitude of the locals. One can’t help but smile then, on discovering on a visit to the stunning gothic Cathedral of Palma, that it took 400 years to build! In fact, the bell tower, although home to an enormous bell which has a diameter of two metres and weighs in at a massive 5,700 kilograms, still isn’t finished to this day! It is, however, an absolutely spectacular building and contains one of the largest stained glass windows in the world, as well as some later additions which were the work of Gaudi. Wherever you are staying in Majorca, family holidays should certainly take in this awe inspiring sight.
Galleries and Museums
Galleries and museums of course offer a truly fascinating way to find out about a country’s culture and heritage and the Museum of Mallorca, which can also be found in Palma, provides a wonderful insight into the background and influences of the island. Housed in a stunning example of a 16th century mansion house, the building itself is worth a visit, but visitors will also be able to look in on an ancient pottery workshop, burial cave and the variety of exhibitions which are dedicated to the Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance periods. As well as the larger museums and galleries on the island, however, there are also many smaller local ones scattered all over Majorca. Family holidays for ‘culture vultures’ will certainly live up to expectations, with even the fascinating architecture in every street being a work of art in its own right.
Places of Religious Interest
Like so many of the Mediterranean countries, Spain is a nation of deeply religious people, something which is evident in its profusion of churches and cathedrals. These aren’t, however, the only places of religious interest and the island is home to a number of fascinating and very aesthetically beautiful monasteries such as Nostra Senyora de Lluc, which is considered to be the holiest spot in Majorca. Family holidays to the island offer a superb opportunity to gain an insight into the religious background of the island and, as many of the monasteries are located in the countryside, visiting them also means the chance to experience some of the fantastic walks and see some of the island’s flora and fauna.
Other Things to See and Do
Majorca family holidays can of course be scheduled to coincide with one of the island’s many colourful festivals and these are a superb way to appreciate its cultural heritage and long standing traditions. With opera and jazz festivals taking place too, a cultural trip to Majorca is one not to be missed!
Author Resource:-
Davide Smith is the Destination Expert for Bargain Holidays Online, a unique holiday website which specialises in cheap, last-minute deals for Majorca family holidays (http://www.bargainholidaysonline.com/?page=majorca-family-holidays ) as well as giving you access to over 20 million other bargain
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