In a small alley in the old town of Palma de Mallorca (Carrer de Can Serra 7), not far from La Seu Cathedral, there is an attraction that, at first glance, appears modest but holds great cultural value. It is protected as a monument and is part of Spain’s historical heritage.
The section you provided has been translated into English as follows: It’s about the Arab Baths, also known as Banys Àrabs and Baños Árabes. This is perhaps because the Arab Baths are not as crowded as many other tourist attractions in Palma de Mallorca. For me, they are a wonderful oasis of tranquility in the midst of the vibrant city of Palma, and I always enjoy returning.
Arab Baths of Palma: The era of the famous baths
The Arab Baths are nestled in a charming old garden filled with cacti, palm trees, and orange trees. With their Islamic architecture, they bear witness to the era of the Moors. Back then, from the 10th to the 13th century, the area of the city was known as Medina Mayurka and was limited to the current core of the old town around the cathedral.
The baths and the beautiful garden were part of the property of Can Serra before the 19th century. However, no one can say with certainty when exactly the structure was built. Most experts place the Banys Àrabs in the 10th century.
Light show at the Banys Àrabs
What few people know and what makes the Banys Àrabs so special is that once a year, during the summer solstice, sunlight enters at a perfect angle through the ventilation slits of the dome, illuminating the central pool with a magical light. This is thanks to Moorish engineering.
Similar baths existed in other Islamic cities as well, including those in Andalusia. It is notable that many of the construction materials used in the Banys Àrabs come from much older buildings.
A Visit to the Banys Àrabs
We enter the century-old building through a horseshoe arch doorway. A semicircular brick dome rests on twelve imposing columns, which also feature the typical horseshoe arches. The dome has small openings that allow soft light to filter into the Arab baths.
This room (main room) was formerly used as a steam bath (Caldarium). It features an exceptional double floor with slits. Through these slits, hot air or steam would rise: it could be compared to a radiant floor heating system. Ancient pipes were also found in the building, probably used to conduct hot water to the rooms, as well as part of a chimney.
Another room features a barrel vault. It was possibly the old Tepidarium, a kind of relaxation room with stone benches.
The Arab Baths not only served health purposes but were also an important place for leisure and communication.
Visitor Information
It is worth visiting them, as the impressive columns and the Mediterranean garden offer a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. Although the Banys Àrabs in Palma de Mallorca are not very large, they hold great historical significance.
However, today there is little left of the former splendor and magnificence. And, of course, you can’t bathe in the baths either. The entrance fee to the baths is surprisingly cheap, priced at 3.50 euros. However, there is not much information on-site, except for a small video: therefore, if you want to know more about the Arab Baths of Palma de Mallorca, it might be useful to do a little research beforehand.
Aside from that, the Banys Àrabs are also suitable for those who simply want to take a break from the bustling Palma de Mallorca, as, especially near the cathedral, there are few places of interest that are as relaxing and tranquil. Additionally, there are several nice seating areas in the garden. The baths are open year-round, every day.
Address:
Arab Baths
Carrer de Can Serra 7
07001 Palma
Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry:
- €3.50 for adults
- Free admission for children up to 10 years old
- €1.50 per person for groups of more than 10 people
Contact:
Phone: +34 637 04 65 34
Nearby Attractions to the Banys Àrabs
300 m
350 m
550 m
600 m
600 m
