Can Tacon

Can Tacon, Palma, Spain: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: Discover Can Tacon in Palma’s Old Town

Nestled within the atmospheric labyrinth of Palma de Mallorca’s Old Town, Can Tacon stands as a testament to the city’s rich tapestry of history and culture. This site, though less monumental than Palma’s major landmarks like La Seu Cathedral, captures the essence of the city’s architectural and social heritage through its elegant Catalan Gothic, Baroque, and Modernist influences. Surrounded by artisan workshops, cafes, and galleries, Can Tacon is a gateway to both Palma’s storied past and its vibrant present (World Travel Guide; SitiosQueVisitar).

This guide provides detailed information on Can Tacon’s history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical tips to help you plan an enriching visit. It also highlights sustainable tourism initiatives vital to preserving Palma’s unique character and environment (Responsible Travel). For interactive maps, guided tours, and insider tips, consider downloading the Audiala app (Visit Palma).

History and Cultural Significance
Can Tacon: Architectural Features and Location
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Visitor Experience & Highlights
Sustainable Tourism and the Mallorca Tourist Tax
Getting There and Transportation Tips
Food, Shopping, and Amenities
Practical Visitor Tips and Etiquette
Nearby Historical Sites
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Recommendations
References

History and Cultural Significance

Palma’s Origins and Evolution

Founded as the Roman settlement of Palmaria in 123 BC, Palma’s position in the Mediterranean has made it a crossroads of civilizations. After the Romans, the city saw successive influences from the Byzantines, Moors (who named it Medina Mayurqa), and Christian conquerors. Each era left a mark on Palma’s urban fabric, most notably in the Old Town’s winding alleys and eclectic architecture (World Travel Guide; Condé Nast Traveller).

Can Tacon within Palma’s Old Town

Located at Carrer de Sant Jaume, 11, 07012 Palma, Illes Balears, Can Tacon is a recognized historical site, emblematic of the city’s layered past (SitiosQueVisitar). While specific records are limited, the building’s preserved Gothic and Modernist features suggest a longstanding role as a residence or commercial hub during Palma’s medieval and early modern periods. Its golden sandstone facade, wrought-iron balconies, and traditional Mallorcan shutters evoke both the Mediterranean climate and the city’s architectural traditions (spainmadesimple.com).

Can Tacon: Architectural Features and Location

Can Tacon exemplifies the Catalan Gothic style, with pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and stone masonry, alongside later Baroque and Modernist enhancements. The inner patios, shaded balconies, and ornate ironwork respond to the Mediterranean environment, blending function with aesthetic charm (turispanish.com). Its central location places it within walking distance of Palma’s major historical sites, artisan shops, and vibrant local markets.

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

As of July 2025:

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Closed Mondays and public holidays.
Admission Fees: €8 adults, €5 students/seniors, free for children under 12. Group discounts available.
Tickets: Available at the entrance and online via the official Palma tourism portal. Advance booking is recommended in summer.
Accessibility: The main exhibition halls and facilities are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators for key areas. Service animals are welcome.

For up-to-date information or special opening hours (festivals, maintenance), check with the Palma Virtual Tourism Portal.

Visitor Experience & Highlights

Historic Courtyard: Citrus trees and a central fountain offer a tranquil retreat for photos or a coffee break.
Exhibition Halls: Exhibits trace Palma’s evolution from Moorish rule to the Modernista era through artifacts, multimedia, and interactive displays (Lions in the Piazza).
Workshops & Events: Hands-on sessions in ceramics, textiles, and Mallorcan cuisine are held regularly. Check the official events calendar for schedules.
Guided Tours: Available in English, Spanish, and German, tours last about 45 minutes and delve into architectural and historical details.
Family Friendly: Interactive displays and children’s workshops make Can Tacon suitable for all ages.

Sustainable Tourism and the Mallorca Tourist Tax

Mallorca’s rapid tourism growth has led to sustainability challenges—overtourism, environmental strain, and rising living costs. In response, the Balearic government introduced the Mallorca Tourist Tax (Ecotasa) in 2016. The tax is levied on overnight stays in accommodations, with proceeds funding environmental projects, heritage restoration, and community initiatives (Mallorca Now; Click Mallorca).

2025 Tax Overview:

Rates vary by accommodation type and season (e.g., €1–€4 per night for adults; 50% discount after day 9).
Children under 16 are exempt.
Funds support environmental restoration, cultural preservation, and sustainable tourism practices.

Can Tacon benefits from these initiatives, ensuring its preservation for future generations (Responsible Travel).

Getting There and Transportation Tips

On Foot: Best accessed by walking through Palma’s Old Town.
Public Transport: Bus lines 2, 3, and 15 stop nearby (MovingTo.com).
Taxis: Can drop off at the edge of pedestrian areas.
Parking: Limited and expensive. Use Parc de la Mar or Via Roma car parks at the Old Town’s perimeter.
Cycling: Palma has several bike rental services and designated bike parking (Salt in Our Hair).

Food, Shopping, and Amenities

On-site Café: Offers Mallorcan pastries, light snacks, and local beverages in a shaded courtyard.
Gift Shop: Sells artisan ceramics, textiles, and books supporting local makers.
Restrooms & Cloakroom: Available on ground and first floors.
Nearby: Numerous cafés and restaurants, from traditional tapas bars to contemporary eateries (Tourist Secrets; The Frugal Expat).

Practical Visitor Tips and Etiquette

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn (mild weather, fewer crowds). Early mornings and late afternoons are quieter.
Dress Code: Comfortable, flat shoes are recommended for cobblestone streets (Lonely Planet).
Photography: Permitted in most areas without flash or tripods; some exhibitions may restrict photos.
Accessibility: Inform staff if you need assistance; strollers are allowed in most areas.
Sustainability: Use recycling bins, bring a reusable water bottle, and support local businesses.

Nearby Historical Sites

La Seu Cathedral: A 5-minute walk, renowned for its Gothic architecture.
Royal Palace of La Almudaina: Adjacent to the cathedral, blending Moorish and Gothic styles.
Arab Baths: Rare Islamic-era remains within 10 minutes on foot.
Mercat de l’Olivar: Central market for fresh local produce and tapas.
Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum: Features Picasso, Miró, and local artists (The Frugal Expat).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Can Tacon’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Closed Mondays and public holidays.

Q: How much are tickets and where can I buy them?
A: €8 adults, €5 students/seniors, free for under 12s. Buy onsite or via Visit Palma.

Q: Is Can Tacon wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, most exhibition areas and restrooms are accessible.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, daily in English, Spanish, and German; tours last about 45 minutes.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, in most areas—without flash or tripods.

Q: Is Can Tacon family-friendly?
A: Absolutely. There are interactive displays and workshops for children.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Can Tacon is a cornerstone of Palma’s historical and cultural mosaic. Its accessible location, rich programming, and commitment to sustainability make it an essential stop for visitors to Mallorca. Plan ahead by checking opening hours, booking tickets online, and considering guided tours for a deeper understanding of the site’s heritage.

Support sustainable tourism by respecting local customs, patronizing family-run businesses, and minimizing your environmental impact. For the latest updates, virtual tours, and exclusive content, download the Audiala app or visit the official Palma tourism website.