Casa al Born de Palma de Mallorca historical building by Josep Salvany i Blanch 1915

Can Solleric

Can Solleric Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Palma Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Can Solleric’s Role in Palma’s Heritage

Prominently situated on Passeig del Born, Can Solleric (also known as Casal Solleric or Palacio Morell) is an iconic example of 18th-century Mallorcan aristocratic architecture and a vital hub for contemporary art in Palma. Originally constructed in the mid-1700s for Miguel Buenaventura Vallès Orlandis, the manor was designed by Gaspar Palmer, merging Rococo and Neoclassical styles with Italianate ironwork by Antonio Soldati. Its architectural cohesion and stylistic innovation marked a significant departure from traditional Palma building norms, reflecting the ambitions of the Mallorcan nobility during the Enlightenment (casalsolleric.palma.es; SeeMallorca.com).

After centuries as a private residence, Can Solleric was acquired by Palma’s City Council in 1975 and restored to preserve its architectural splendor while serving contemporary cultural needs. Since its reopening as the Exhibition and Documentation Centre for Contemporary Art in 1985, the palace has become a vibrant center for artistic innovation, hosting rotating exhibitions, workshops, and community events (myartguides.com; mallorca.art).

Today, visitors enjoy free access to this remarkable monument, which not only embodies Palma’s historical grandeur but also pulses with the energy of its contemporary art scene. Its central location, accessible facilities, and proximity to landmarks like Palma Cathedral make it essential for anyone exploring Mallorca’s culture. This guide details Can Solleric’s history, architecture, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and offers tips for making the most of your visit (casalsolleric.palma.es; mallorca-today.com).

Model of Can Solleric at La Granja d'Esporles

Origins and Construction
Architectural Features and Artistic Influences
Evolution Through the Centuries
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Accessibility and Visitor Information
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Special Events, Guided Tours, and Photographic Spots
Historical Significance in Palma’s Urban Fabric
Restoration and Adaptive Reuse
Role in Contemporary Culture
Notable Historical Artifacts and Legacy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

Origins and Construction

Can Solleric’s roots are tied to the Vallès family, who, in 1763, demolished a group of inherited houses to build a unified mansion. This move from the traditional “collage” construction to a cohesive architectural design, executed by Gaspar Palmer, was emblematic of evolving tastes and social aspirations. The new mansion, blending grandeur with Mallorcan elements, received noble titles under King Charles III and became a symbol of Palma’s aristocratic transformation (casalsolleric.palma.es).

Architectural Features and Artistic Influences

The palace is celebrated for its Rococo origins, later transitioning to Neoclassicism. Gaspar Palmer’s design, complemented by Antonio Soldati’s decorative ironwork, added a cosmopolitan flair. Notable features include a spacious inner courtyard with arcades, a grand staircase with ornate iron railings, and elegant rooms with high ceilings and fireplaces. The blend of Baroque exuberance and Neoclassical clarity makes Can Solleric a unique architectural monument (SeeMallorca.com; mallorca-today.com).

Evolution Through the Centuries

For nearly two centuries, Can Solleric served as a private home for the Morell family. In 1975, the City Council recognized its significance and acquired the property, leading to a comprehensive restoration. Since 1985, it has operated as a major cultural institution, hosting contemporary art exhibitions and serving as a focal point for Palma’s arts community (SeeMallorca.com; myartguides.com).

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday and Public Holidays: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Closed: Mondays, December 25, and January 1

Admission: Free for general entry. Special exhibitions may require a ticket—details and online booking are available via the official website.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Can Solleric is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators facilitating movement between floors. Multilingual guided tours (English, Spanish, and more) are available and can be booked in advance. Visitor amenities include restrooms, a cloakroom, and a gift shop.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Located at Passeig del Born 27, Can Solleric is within walking distance of Palma Cathedral, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, and Plaça Major. Public buses stop nearby, and parking garages are available in the city center (spaces may be limited during peak times). Visitors often combine their visit with nearby historical sites or enjoy the cafés and shops along Passeig del Born.

Special Events, Guided Tours, and Photographic Spots

The palace hosts a dynamic calendar of cultural events, such as workshops, lectures, and special exhibitions. Guided tours offer insights into both the architecture and the art. Photographers will appreciate the illuminated courtyard and grand staircase, which provide striking backdrops for creative shots.

Historical Significance in Palma’s Urban Fabric

Can Solleric is a hallmark of 18th-century noble ambition and a catalyst in Palma’s transformation from a medieval enclave to a modern city. Its monumental architecture exemplifies the city’s baroque and neoclassical legacy and stands as a testament to evolving urban and social dynamics (mallorca-today.com).

Restoration and Adaptive Reuse

After its acquisition, Can Solleric underwent meticulous restoration, balancing the preservation of historical elements with the integration of modern infrastructure for exhibitions and events. This adaptive reuse is a model for cultural heritage management (myartguides.com).

Role in Contemporary Culture

Today, Can Solleric is a leading center for contemporary art in Palma, showcasing local and international artists and collaborating with institutions like Es Baluard Museu. The blend of historic ambiance and modern innovation makes it a lively venue for cultural exchange (mallorca.art).

Notable Historical Artifacts and Legacy

Artifacts such as the portrait of Antoni Cifre, the estate’s previous owner, highlight the site’s layered history. The adjacent alleyway named for Cifre further connects Can Solleric to the city’s past (casalsolleric.palma.es).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Can Solleric’s opening hours?
A: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; Sundays and holidays 11:00 AM–2:00 PM; closed Mondays.

Q: Is there a ticket fee?
A: General admission is free; special exhibitions may charge.

Q: Is the building accessible?
A: Yes, there are ramps and elevators.

Q: Are guided tours offered?
A: Yes, in multiple languages—book in advance.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Non-flash photography is usually permitted; some restrictions apply during exhibitions.

Q: Where is Can Solleric?
A: Passeig del Born 27, Palma, Mallorca.

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

For up-to-date information on hours, exhibitions, and tickets, visit the official Can Solleric website. Download the Audiala app for audio tours and exclusive cultural content, and follow Can Solleric on social media for event updates.

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Can Solleric’s baroque façade, elegant courtyard, and grand staircase are architectural gems. Inside, rotating exhibitions span painting, sculpture, video, and site-specific installations. Recent highlights include Markus Linnenbrink’s immersive color installation and retrospectives by Peter Halley (thecalendarmallorca.com; mallorcacaprice.com). Collaborations with institutions like Es Baluard Museu further enrich its cultural offerings (La Palmesana).

Visitor Experience

Exhibitions: Rotating every few months, featuring local and international artists.
Events: Workshops, talks, performances, and guided tours.
Facilities: Wheelchair accessible; restrooms, cloakroom, and gift shop available.
Photography: Allowed without flash; check for exhibition-specific restrictions.

Enhance Your Visit

Best Times: Mornings and weekdays are quieter.
Nearby: Combine with a walk along Passeig del Born, Palma Cathedral, or Old Town.
Interactive Media: Explore virtual tours and interactive maps on the official site.

Summary: Why Visit Can Solleric?

Can Solleric is a unique synthesis of Palma’s aristocratic heritage and vibrant contemporary culture. Its grand architecture, accessible location, and dynamic art programming make it essential for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Mallorca’s past and present. Free admission, thoughtful restoration, and an inclusive visitor experience ensure Can Solleric remains Palma’s cultural heartbeat (casalsolleric.palma.es; SeeMallorca.com; mallorca-today.com; mallorca.art).