David's Diary: Tuesday, March 19, 2002

Palma Cathedral

Whether approaching Palma Harbour, moored at dock, or walking along the waterfront, Palma Cathedral forms an imposing monument that towers over the old part of the city. Rising above the sea front, this elegant cathedral was begun in 1230 on the site of a former mosque, but not finished until 1600. Last week we were too busy with school to visit the cathedral, so today after school was finished we walked over to take a look.

Like many Spanish churches, we entered by a side door and not by the more obvious main door. We continue to be impressed by Catalan cathedrals. The Gothic cathedral features a towering nave and beautifully decorated side chapels give them a unique style. Slender pillars (fourteen in all) separate the nave from the aisles. Over the altar sits a sculpture by Gaudi (the famous architect from Barcelona) which features fantastic ships (sorry, but no pictures were allowed in the cathedral).

Resting In The Park

After our cathedral visit we wandered the narrow streets of the old town and passed by the Palau de L'Almudaina. The fortress was originally moorish, but converted to a royal residence in the 13C. We then visited Conquistador park along the main street in the center of Palma's old town. While the boys chased around in the trees, finding sticks and treasures, Jocelyn, Karalee, and Bobbie took a break in the shade.