Pocket sized Palma is rich in history, culture and gastronomy. Big enough to offer choice and variety but small enough to buzz around in a day and Palma’s shops of which many are unique, play an important role in the city we see today.
With its Moorish city walls, Gothic Cathedral, wide avenues, expansive plazas and as well as its narrow cobbled streets and its magnificent Bay, Palma has become one of the most visited cities in Europe.
What makes this city particularly special is the enduring presence of its historic shops, bars and restaurants.
Recognising the importance of their role, a scheme was launched to support and promote them highlighting the part they play in the culture and heritage of Palma.
To qualify the business needs to be opened before 1943, should showcase traditional trades of the Balearic Islands or be housed in a heritage building. Seventy-five businesses are registered which are featured in an online guide for visitors to seek out.
Ranging from hardware stores to record and shoe shops, bars and bakeries, the oldest is a haberdashers, Mercerià Ángela just off Plaza Mayor dating back to 1685 and still run by the same family. Forn Fondo, known for their chocolates and cream ensaïmadas, has been serving Palmesanos for almost 300 years.
Carmina, offering shoes made to order or off the shelf and working with leather produced in Inca, are a 6th generation family shoemaker open since 1866 and their brand is now sold worldwide.
Visiting with children ? Don’t miss the neon green sign of La Industrial toy shop, making children smile for over a century.
The Aguillo family took over the store in 1929 and their granddaughter still runs it today. Next door you will find La Pajarita, a sweet and savoury mix of delicatessen and chocolates. Opened in 1872 and run now by the 5th generation. Their Christmas window decoration is a sight to behold.
La Casa del Paraguas draws me in each time I pass with its stunning display of fans and umbrellas.
Mimbrerià Vidal sell a wide range of baskets, bags and more all produced by hand since 1955, perfect to carry all your souvenirs.
Refreshments. Can Joan de S´Aigo means the house of Joan of the Ice. Established 200 years ago Joan worked in the ice trade storing and delivering ice from the mountains in spring. Joan experimented by adding fruit to the melting ice and in doing so made a sorbet. Now well established in Palma’s history as the place to go for ice cream and local favourite, the ensaïmada.
Avoid the repetitive chain stores and immerse yourself in Palma’s historic shops and restaurants.
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