On the island of Mallorca, between the Tramuntana mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, there is a place that is much more than a town. This is the monumental complex of Valldemossa, a few kilometers from the so-called Mallorcan Costa Nord. Steep streets, stone facades and religious buildings that are lost among lush vegetation They give this corner a unique charm that, in fact, in the 19th century made the composer Frédéric Chopin and the writer George Sand fall in love with it.
Just 17 kilometers from Palma and 400 meters above sea level lies this beautiful villa. Part of its stone farmhouse climbs a nearby hill, giving rise to steep streets and excellent natural viewpoints. In Valldemossa, the mountains of this area become in a few kilometers transparent water beaches and coves. In addition, its port maintains a maritime air in the purest style of yesteryear.
The whole complex is surrounded by lush forests, among which stand out olive and almond trees, irrigated by the many springs in the area. In addition to its natural beauty, the doors and windows of the houses painted green contrast with the stone with which they have been built.
Pelayo Arbues
La Cartuja is the most emblematic monument of this town. Is about an old monasteryoriginally the residence of James II, which was inhabited by the Carthusian fathers between 1399 and 1835. In addition, its cloisters, cells, gardens and museums also preserve the remains of its greatest illustrious visitors: Frédéric Chopin and George Sand, who lived in the building during his stay in Valldemossa.
Among its walls you can see scores, writings, furniture and correspondence related to the stay on the island of the Polish composer and the writer, in addition to the piano “Pleyel”. In addition to the bell tower of La Cartuja, another tower dominates the roofs of this town: that of the parish church of San Bartolomé, from the 13th century.
Zoran Borojevic
The old charterhouse, the palace of King Sancho, also has a defense tower, a cloister and an access staircase of great historical interest. This former royal residence also housed in its day writers such as Jovellanos, Ruben Darío, Unamuno or Azorín.
At the foot of the mountain where Valldemossa is located, there is a small hermitage from where you can admire one of the most representative landscapes of the town and which is also worth visiting.
David Lives
Cover photo | Patrick Baum
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