Renowned for its lively street market, Manacor is a bustling town on the island of Mallorca that has long been a hub for furniture manufacturing. It centres around an atmospheric historic core with centuries-old palaces and churches while it’s also on the doorstep of Talaiotic archaeological sites and one of the island’s most impressive cave systems.
Things to do in Manacor
Stroll through the historic heart of Manacor to admire the Parroquia de la Mare de Deu dels Dolors, a Neo-Gothic-style church that houses impressive murals and beautiful stained-glass windows. Nearby is all that remains of the Royal Palace of Manacor, the Tribute Tower. Originally built as a residence for King James II of Mallorca, it later served as a prison.
A short drive from Manacor is the Coves dels Hams, an impressive cave system discovered in 1905 by Pedro Caldentey. Translating as the “Fishhook Caves”, it’s named after the unique shape of its stalactites and stalagmites. Join a guided tour to explore the impressive caverns and see the “Sea of Venice”, an underground lake that is beautifully illuminated by lights.
History buffs should make the journey north-east to Ses Paisses, a Bronze Age settlement and one of the best-preserved prehistoric sites in the Balearic Islands. It comprises several megalithic structures that are believed to have been used for religious purposes or as storehouses. Visit with a guide to learn more about the Talaiotic Culture, which dates back around 3,000 years.
Getting around Manacor
Manacor is around 45 minutes’ drive from Palma and 40 minutes from Palma de Mallorca Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular trains connect to the Manacor railway station and buses travel throughout the town. The centre of Manacor can easily be explored on foot.