In the northern coast of Mallorca, near Can Picafort and right by the sea, on the beach of Son Bauló, lies the Son Real Necropolis. I must admit that the place is somewhat mystical and mysterious, as we are talking about a city of the dead.
More precisely, the Son Real Necropolis is the only above-ground cemetery on the island of Mallorca. It is located in the municipality of Santa Margalida, at the cape Punta des Fenicis, which translates to “Point of the Phoenicians.”
Map and Location
Son Real itself is the name of the coastal area where the tombs are located. It originates from an estate of nearly 400 hectares, whose main building is situated next to the MA-12 road.
This area is sparsely urbanized and dominated by extensive pine forests. However, on the flat, rocky coast, there are barely any trees, so the view of the tombs is unobstructed.
Unfortunately, little is known about the origin of the cemetery, as there are hardly any written or documentary records. However, what is known about the Son Real Necropolis is as exciting as it is impressive. For this reason, it is a true secret for tourists interested in the history and culture of Mallorca.
What is Known About the Son Real Necropolis
It is confirmed that the city of the dead, which spans an area of about 800 square meters, dates from the 7th to 4th centuries BC. It is even more remarkable that the more than 100 tombs are still relatively well preserved. When they were discovered in 1957 on the island of Mallorca, it was a true sensation for science.
Until 1970, excavations were carried out around the municipality of Santa Margalida. Surprising discoveries were made that provide a fascinating insight into the culture of that time. Researchers found circular, rectangular, and horseshoe-shaped constructions during the excavations.
In the tombs, not only were more than 300 skeletons found, but also numerous valuable funerary objects. Jewelry, for example, as well as iron weapons and everyday utensils. Even animal bones and seashells were hidden in the tombs. However, no one knows where the deceased from the Son Real Necropolis came from.
To date, no settlement in Mallorca has been linked to the tombs. It is possible that the deceased came from other islands, but this is pure speculation.
Unforgettable and Very Interesting: A Walk to the Cemetery
Those spending their vacation in the Bay of Alcúdia or in Can Picafort shouldn’t miss the visit to the necropolis. Even coming from more distant towns along the coast, the trip is worth it, as the Son Real Necropolis (as it’s called in Mallorcan) has an almost magical aura.
The graves on the beach of Son Bauló fascinate me every time I visit them. A path approximately one kilometer long cuts through the Son Real nature reserve at Punta des Fenicis.
The path is ideal for a family outing. Notably, the entire area is accessible and, therefore, also suitable for wheelchairs.
At the start of the trail, there is a large informational panel that provides many interesting facts. The findings from the graves are no longer at Punta des Fenicis; they are safeguarded in a museum.
The museum is also highly recommended, as it not only houses the findings from the Son Real Necropolis but also objects from excavations in the ancient Roman city of Pollentia. The museum is called Museu Monogràfic de Poŀlèntia and is located at Carrer Sant Jaume 30, in Alcudia.
The Son Real Estate
The medieval estate of Son Real, mentioned earlier, is open to the public and is located between Can Picafort and Son Serra de Marina. It includes several buildings, such as defense towers, a chapel, and stables.
The Necropolis and the Son Real estate are the perfect destination for a family outing.
Richard Hanke
In the main building, a film shows the history of Son Real. The objects on display illustrate how people lived in and around Son Real at that time. The estate also features a beautiful park with animal enclosures.
If you like, you can take a picture of the famous Iberian pigs, the black pigs. Several routes, both longer and shorter, cross the expansive park.
The Son Real Necropolis: A Special Excursion
The necropolis near Son Serra de Marina offers a unique experience of Mallorca and is sure to leave a lasting impression. The visit can also be perfectly combined with a tour of the estate. Then, the often deserted beaches of Son Real invite you to relax. This excursion is particularly appealing to adults and is also very suitable for families with older children.
Attractions near the Son Real Necropolis
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