The Santuari de Sant Salvador is enthroned like a fortress on a hilltop near Felanitx. Not least because of its spectacular view over the entire island, it is one of the most beautiful monasteries on Mallorca.
4km east of the Mallorcan town of Felanitx, the imposing Santuari de Sant Salvador pilgrimage church towers into Mallorca's cobalt blue sky on its 500m-high hill. Among the many monasteries and hermitages on Mallorca, Sant Salvador is clearly one of the most impressive and is on our list of the top 10 sights of Mallorca.
History of the Santuari de Sant Salvador
Already in the 14th century, the highest mountain of the southern Serres de Llevant was called Sant Salvador. At that time, a chapel was built on its top in 1348 by order of King Pere IV of Aragon. In the 15th century the veneration of the Madonna began, and later a grammar school was also attached.
After the flow of pilgrims to the Puig de Sant Salvador grew, the massive sanctuary of today was built in 1715. Due to the pirate raids of that time, the church was built similar to a fortress. Its fortified exterior is still on display today. Until 1992 the monastery complex was administered by monks, today it is privately owned.
If you're planning a trip to witness this historical sanctuary and its surrounding tranquility, it might be beneficial for you to have a comfortable place to stay. Consider booking one of the Mallorca villas that combine homely comfort with a touch of luxury, perfect for your visit to this mesmerizing location.
In contrast to its exterior, the interior of the church is comparatively splendidly furnished. The baroque high altar from the 15th century and the replica of the Last Supper from the Puerta del Mirador in La Seu Cathedral in Palma can be mentioned as highlights. In a small antechamber, believers have collected photos and even prostheses to thank the Mother of God for her healing.
Visit to the Santuari de Sant Salvador
The turnoff to the sanctuary from the main road from Felanitx to Porto Colom is marked with two stone pillars and can hardly be missed. Arriving at the parking lot, one is greeted by the impressive 37m high Monument to Christ the King with a 7m high figure of Christ extending his right hand in a gesture of blessing. The monument was erected in 1934.
Tip: The best time to visit the Santuari de Sant Salvador is in the evening, when the light is at its best and the sanctuary is hardly visited.
Climbing some steps that lead to a small walled square, you can take a closer look at the monumental statue. From this square you also have a magnificent view of the green, gently rolling landscape of southeast Mallorca to the coastal towns of Alcúdia and Pollença.
Stone cross Creu d'es Picot
Walking up the street to the church, the view also falls on the other side almost the entire island. On the horizon, the peaks of the Serra de Tramuntana in the west of Mallorca can be made out. Here you can also see the monumental stone cross Creu d'es Picot north of the monastery, which was built on a neighboring hill.
In the original tavern, which is connected to the church, a little refreshment can be consumed with a dreamlike view.
Tip: If you want to enjoy the view from the Santuari de Sant Salvador longer, you can rent a reasonably priced room in the monastery complex - advance reservations are highly recommended!
Stopover at the stone cross
On the way back, it is worthwhile to stop briefly by the roadside with the car and also climb the hill to the stone cross in a few minutes. The imposing monument has already had to be renewed twice in its history and dates back to 1957. The surrounding panorama is absolutely magnificent from here as well!
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