History and Heritage of Mallorca: A Journey Through Time | Reverence Hotels

Mallorca is much more than hidden coves and good weather. The island holds centuries of history in its stones, paths and traditions. From Reverence Hotels we invite you to discover another side of the island: its deepest soul, woven over millennia. This journey through the history of Mallorca and its cultural heritage is perfect for those who wish to connect with the past while enjoying the present.

All this close to our hotels such as Reverence Mare in Palmanova, Reverence Life in Santa Ponsa and the Apartamentos Casa Vida also in Santa Ponsa, both locations belonging to the municipality of Calvià.
A legacy that begins in prehistory

The first settlers left their mark more than 3,000 years ago. Megalithic constructions such as the talayots, taulas and navetas are among the oldest and most enigmatic testimonies of the archaeological sites of Mallorca. The Ses Païsses site in Artà or the Talayotic village of Capocorb Vell in Llucmajor allow us to imagine how those ancient communities lived, among rituals, cyclopean stones and defensive structures.

Roman era and Byzantine influence
The island was conquered by the Roman Empire in 123 BC and renamed Balearis Major. From that period, remains such as the Roman theatre of Pollentia in Alcúdia or traces of ancient rural villas scattered around the island can still be visited. Later, Byzantine influence left its mark on small rural basilicas, such as Son Peretó in Manacor.

Islamic Mallorca: Al-Andalus in the Mediterranean
Between the 10th and 13th centuries, Mallorca was part of the Islamic world. It was a time of agricultural and cultural flourishing. Although many remains were destroyed after the Christian conquest, key elements are still preserved, such as the Arab Baths of Palma, an oasis of silence and beauty hidden in the old town, and the irregular layout of some streets in the historic centre.

Christian conquest and Gothic splendour
In 1229, King Jaume I conquered the island for the Crown of Aragon, marking the beginning of a new era. From this period arose some of the most important monuments of Mallorca’s cultural heritage, such as the Cathedral of Palma, the Bellver Castle and the

Royal Palace of La Almudaina. The austere yet majestic Gothic architecture continues to define the skyline of the capital.

Museums in Mallorca: guardians of memory
The island boasts a valuable network of museums that help to better understand its complex history. Some must-visits include:
• The Museu de Mallorca, located in a former Baroque palace in Palma, with archaeological, ethnological and artistic collections.
• The Es Baluard Museum, dedicated to modern and contemporary art, situated on top of the Renaissance walls.
• The Pilar and Miró Foundation Mallorca, which preserves the artist’s workshops and works in an intimate and creative setting.
• The Historical Museum of Manacor, with Roman and Talayotic pieces.
• And small local gems such as the Parish Museum of Muro or the Museum of Pollença.

Routes, villages and living tradition
Beyond monumental buildings, Mallorca’s history can also be felt while strolling through its villages. Cobbled streets, Gothic churches, stately homes and traditional festivals keep the island’s identity alive. In places like Sóller, Artà, Alcúdia or Valldemossa, every corner tells a story.

At Reverence Hotels we encourage our guests to discover this deeper side of the island. Our team will be delighted to help you organise visits, recommend museums or design personalised historical routes.
Because getting to know Mallorca also means looking back to understand what undoubtedly makes it so special today.