Coat of arms of the college of stonemasons on the side of Santa Eulalia church in Palma

Church De Santa Eulàlia

Church De Santa Eulàlia Palma, Spain: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Church De Santa Eulàlia, set in the historical heart of Palma de Mallorca, is an enduring symbol of nearly eight centuries of religious, cultural, and architectural evolution. Built soon after the Christian conquest of Mallorca in 1229, this church stands on the site of a former mosque and is celebrated for its remarkable Gothic style and subsequent Baroque and Neo-Gothic enhancements (Ajuntament de Palma; Visit Palma; life-globe.com). The church is a highlight for anyone interested in history, architecture, or the living cultural traditions of Mallorca.

This detailed guide provides everything you need to plan your visit, including historical context, visitor information, ticket details, accessibility, guided tours, nearby attractions, and practical tips.

Lateral window of Santa Eulàlia church with shoemakers' guild shield in Palma

Side door of Santa Eulàlia church in Palma de Mallorca

Sculptural details of Santa Eulàlia by Francesc Matheu i Fornells

Detailed view of Santa Eulàlia artwork by Francesc Matheu i Fornells from 1920

Historical Background
Architectural Highlights
Visitor Information
Restoration and Preservation
Spiritual and Community Life
Nearby Attractions
Visuals and Media
Visitor Etiquette
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Recommendations
References and External Links

Historical Background

Origins and Foundation

The Church De Santa Eulàlia was established soon after the Christian conquest of Mallorca by King James I of Aragon in 1229. Built on the site of a former mosque, the church’s founding reflects the broader religious and cultural transformation of the island during the Reconquista (Ajuntament de Palma). Dedicated to Saint Eulàlia of Barcelona, an early Christian martyr, the church played a vital role in re-establishing Christian worship in Palma (MallorcaWeb).

Architectural Evolution

Gothic Foundations

Santa Eulàlia was initially constructed in the Catalan Gothic style, distinguished by ribbed vaults, pointed arches, and a single nave with side chapels. The lower sections and nave were completed in the late 13th century, with later additions such as the transept and apse in the 14th and 15th centuries (Visit Palma).

Neo-Gothic and Baroque Enhancements

A devastating earthquake in 1851 led to extensive Neo-Gothic restorations between 1894 and 1903. These works rebuilt the main façade and bell tower, harmonizing with the medieval structure and adding ornate decorative features. The 17th and 18th centuries saw the introduction of Baroque chapels and altarpieces, most notably the main altar by Alberto de Burguy (Palma Cultura).

Cultural and Religious Significance

Santa Eulàlia is one of Palma’s original parish churches and has been central to the city’s spiritual and civic life. It was the site of King James II of Mallorca’s coronation in 1276 and continues to serve as an active parish, hosting regular Masses, sacraments, and major religious festivals (MallorcaWeb; Visit Mallorca).

Notable Events

The church played a critical role during the 1523 Revolt of the Brotherhoods and was restored after suffering fire damage in 1840. Its bells and clock tower remain iconic features of Palma’s skyline (Diario de Mallorca).

Architectural Highlights

Exterior Architecture and Bell Tower

The church’s façade, facing Plaça de Santa Eulàlia, exemplifies Catalan Gothic style, while Neo-Gothic elements added in the 19th century create a striking blend. The octagonal bell tower, rising to 53 meters, is adorned with gargoyles, dragons, and other mythical creatures—a hallmark of both Gothic and Neo-Gothic design (life-globe.com).

Entrances and Interior Layout

Santa Eulàlia has two principal entrances: the main portal on the square and a side entrance on Carrer de la Previsió. The interior features three naves with a higher central nave, supported by slender columns and ribbed vaults that provide a sense of verticality and lightness (life-globe.com).

Artistic Treasures

Chapels: Seven chapels line the ambulatory, dedicated to various saints including Sant Crist de la Conquesta and Saint Eligius, reflecting the church’s links to local artisan guilds (nomads-travel-guide.com; accesmallorca.com).
Main Altar: The Baroque altar, created by Alberto de Burguy, is a gilded masterpiece and the focal point of the interior.
Notable Artworks: Among the highlights are Francesc Comes’ Salvator Mundi panel, medieval tombs, and the legendary Cristo Vencedor figure, said to have accompanied King James I during his conquest (life-globe.com).
Pulpit: The pulpit from which Saint Vincent Ferrer preached in 1413 is preserved within the church (accesmallorca.com).
Stained Glass: Colorful stained glass windows, restored over time, illuminate the interior and enhance its spiritual atmosphere.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00–10:30 am and 5:00–8:00 pm. Hours may change during services or special events, so check the official website or call +34 971 71 46 25 (minube.co.uk).
Entry Fee: Main church entry is free. A small fee applies for climbing the bell tower, which offers panoramic views over Palma’s old town. Tickets for the climb can be purchased onsite.

Accessibility

The main floor is wheelchair accessible, with ramps at the main entrance and accessible restrooms. The bell tower climb is only suitable for visitors without mobility challenges (lonelyplanet.com).

Guided Tours and Events

Guided tours are available through local operators or can be booked at the church or via Palma’s tourism office. Tours typically include historical and artistic highlights (accesmallorca.com).

How to Get There

The church is centrally located on Plaça de Santa Eulàlia, a few minutes’ walk from Plaça de Cort and Palma city hall. Public buses (EMT lines 3 and 25) stop nearby. Parking is limited but available in the old town.

Visitor Tips

Dress Code: Modest attire is required; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Photography: Discreet photography is allowed, but avoid flash and tripods, especially during Mass or ceremonies.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and optimal light for photographs.
Local Experience: Enjoy local pastries and coffee at nearby cafés after your visit (visitpalma.com).

Restoration and Preservation

Declared a Bien de Interés Cultural in 1931, Santa Eulàlia’s architectural integrity has been preserved through careful restorations following the 1851 earthquake and ongoing conservation initiatives. These efforts ensure the church remains a living testament to Mallorca’s religious and cultural legacy (visitpalma.com).

Spiritual and Community Life

Santa Eulàlia is an active parish church, hosting daily Masses, sacraments, and annual festivals—especially on the feast of Saint Eulalia (February 12). The church has long served as a hub for Palma’s Catholic community and continues to be a central venue for baptisms, weddings, funerals, and religious processions (Diocese of Mallorca).

Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit with other Palma historical sites:

Palma Cathedral (La Seu)
Almudaina Palace
Basílica de Sant Francesc
Plaça Major and Palma old town (lonelyplanet.com)

Visuals and Media

Visitors can enjoy virtual tours and image galleries via official tourism websites and cultural portals, featuring detailed views of the church’s bell tower, stained glass, chapels, and altars (life-globe.com; visitpalma.com).

Visitor Etiquette

Dress respectfully and observe silence inside the church.
Photography may be restricted during services.
Attending a Mass or sitting quietly in the nave can deepen your appreciation for the church’s spiritual ambiance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Santa Eulàlia Church?
A: Monday to Saturday, 9:00–10:30 am and 5:00–8:00 pm. Hours may vary during special events or religious services.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: Entry to the church is free. A small fee applies for the bell tower climb.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through local tour operators and Palma’s tourism office.

Q: Is the church wheelchair accessible?
A: The main floor is accessible; the bell tower is not suitable for those with mobility issues.

Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Discreet photography is allowed, but flash and tripods are discouraged.

Q: What are some nearby Palma historical sites to visit?
A: Palma Cathedral, Almudaina Palace, Basílica de Sant Francesc, and Plaça Major.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The Church De Santa Eulàlia is a quintessential Palma landmark, blending Gothic architecture, artistic treasures, and active spiritual traditions. With free entry, accessible facilities, and opportunities for guided exploration, it offers an enriching experience for all visitors. Don’t miss the chance to climb the bell tower for panoramic views or to immerse yourself in local culture at nearby attractions and cafés.

For the latest updates on visiting hours, tickets, and tours, check official Palma tourism resources or contact the church directly. Download the Audiala app for insider tips and explore more about Palma’s historical sites.