Palma de Mallorca 17th---19th September 39:33.77N 002:37.80E
Tioram 4
Tina & Tony
Sun 19 Sep 2010 17:32
|
We left Palma Nova and had a lovely sail across the large
bay to Palma. We had reserved a marina berth which was good, although
expensive, but expected for a capital city and yachting centre.
The beautiful yachts of the world are here, many large
yachts, some of which we have seen before in Gran Canaria and the Caribbean---
obviously doing the circuit for their owners or on charter. There are also
many motor yachts here including Leander, a beautiful large gentleman's
yacht which we saw about 10 years ago at Cowes, Isle of Wight for Cowes
week, again in the BVI's off the Island of Anegada and again now in
Palma.
Yesterday we all ventured ashore to explore the sights of
the old town. The area is predominantly marked by the beautiful
Gothic Cathedral begun in 1230. It is a wonderful spectacle both with
its exterior facades and it's monumental interior.
The scale of the vaulted ceilings approximately 150
ft above us---- dwarfing us into humility--- no doubt the intention in the
past.
It is vast, simple but dominated by the wonderful
'Rose' stained glass windows at each end of the cathedral.
We explored the old town adjacent to the cathedral, again
wonderful old buildings with very narrow streets--- extended balconies almost
touching one another across the streets.
Huge wooden doorways suitable to welcome horses and
carriages of the past. It would have been the residential area of the
wealthy--- perhaps merchants for the port and clergy of the
cathedral.
Today some of the huge wooden doors slide open
automatically, revealing stunning inner courtyards----out of one came a
new mini cooper convertible--- only just squeezing down the narrow
street.
A glance in a local real estate window revealed that the
residences are still very beautiful and at a price tag of Euros 3 to 4
million--- enjoyed by the wealthy of today.
The horses and carriages still frequent the old streets
but now for the tourist. We continued to explore the old town and squares,
stopping for a nice local lunch.
The new part of the city has all the designer and the
usual international brands. There are nice public spaces and open
avenues lined with beautiful trees. There are examples of public art
and sculptures and a modern art museum.
We found an amazing 'bar' the evening before called Abaco.
It may be on the internet. You pass through a small heavy wooden
door---almost feeling like intruding into a house.
As you pass into the grand old terraced house
you are faced with a decadent staircase, grand period chairs, chandelier's,
grand fireplaces, high ceilings and amazing displays of lillies and fresh
fruit.
The scene of people sipping cocktails was pure 'theatre'.
It felt like the stage set of an opera. Candles everywhere created atmosphere.
Behind the room--- a large courtyard with tables. We ventured up the curving
grand staircase through open rooms and onto a balcony which looked down onto the
courtyard---again pure theatre and opera--like.
Magic and worth a visit.
Tony , Ian and myself enjoyed a nice evening together
before we said a sad farewell to Ian today, 19th . We have enjoyed his company,
jokes and have had a good time together.
Ian has experienced a little taste of living and exploring
by boat--- the joys of the sunsets at anchor , meeting other travellers,
beautiful sailing and of course sleeping occasionally in a 'washing machine' on
rock wash.
Love to all
Tina, Tony and ( Ian in Palma ) x x
photos of Palma............
|
