Mallorca facts for kids
Flag of Majorca
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| Demographics | |
| Population | 869,067 |
| Pop. density | 238.75 /km2 (618.36 /sq mi) |
Majorca (also called Mallorca) is a beautiful Spanish island located in the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Balearic Islands, a group of islands off the eastern coast of Spain. With about 869,067 people living there (as of 2010), Majorca is the second most populated island in Spain.
The main city and capital of Majorca is Palma. About 375,000 people live in Palma. Majorca has its own international airport, which makes it easy for visitors to arrive. It also has a university, where students can learn and study. The island's economy mostly relies on tourism, meaning many people visit Majorca for holidays and fun!
Besides Palma, there are other important towns on the island. Some of these include Calvià, Manacor, Llucmajor, Marratxí, Inca, Felanitx, Pollença, Alcúdia, and Sóller. Each of these towns has its own special charm and history.
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Exploring Majorca's History
Majorca has a very long and interesting history, going back thousands of years. People have lived on the island since prehistoric times.
Ancient Times: Talaiots and Romans
Long ago, in the Bronze Age, people on Majorca built amazing stone towers called talaiots. These structures show that early communities were well-organized. You can still see examples of these ancient buildings today.
Later, the Romans arrived on the island. They built cities like Pollentia, and you can still visit the ruins of this Roman city. The Romans brought their culture, language, and way of life to Majorca.
Medieval Majorca: Arabs and Christians
After the Romans, the island was influenced by different groups. For a long time, Majorca was ruled by the Arabs. They brought new farming methods, architecture, and knowledge. You can still see signs of their influence, like the beautiful Arab Baths in Palma.
In the 13th century, James I of Aragon (also known as James the Conqueror) took control of Majorca. This marked the beginning of Christian rule on the island. The Cathedral of Palma, also known as La Seu, is a famous example of the impressive buildings constructed during this time.
Nature and Geography
Majorca is known for its beautiful and varied landscapes. From stunning mountains to sandy beaches, there's a lot to explore.
The Serra de Tramuntana Mountains
The Serra de Tramuntana is a mountain range that runs along the northwest coast of Majorca. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unique landscape and traditional farming terraces. The highest peak on the island, Puig Major, is located here. The mountains are also home to beautiful lakes like Cúber and Gorg Blau. This area is perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
Beautiful Beaches and Coasts
Majorca is famous for its many beaches and coves, especially in the southeast. Places like Cala Llombards, Cala Agulla, and Cala Amarador are popular spots for swimming and sunbathing. The island also has impressive capes, like Cap de Formentor and Cap de Ses Salines, which offer amazing views of the sea.
Culture and Traditions
Majorca has a rich culture with unique traditions, food, and famous people.
Local Delicacies: Ensaïmades
One of the most famous foods from Majorca is the Ensaïmada. This is a spiral-shaped pastry that is often eaten for breakfast or as a sweet treat. It's a must-try when you visit the island!
Famous Personalities and Their Connection to Majorca
Many famous people have lived in or been inspired by Majorca.
- Ramon Llull was a very important writer and philosopher from Majorca in the Middle Ages. He wrote many books, including the Ars Magna.
- The famous composer Frédéric Chopin spent time in Valldemossa, a charming village in the mountains. You can even see his piano there.
- The writer Robert Graves lived on the island, and his grave is also there.
- The poet Miquel Costa i Llobera was born in Pollença, and you can visit his childhood home.
- Ludwig Salvator, an Austrian archduke, loved Majorca and wrote several books about the island. There's even a sculpture of him in Valldemossa.
These individuals show how Majorca has inspired artists, thinkers, and explorers throughout history.
Getting Around the Island
Majorca has a good transportation system, making it easy to travel around. The island has a railway network that connects many towns. There are also buses, like the Badia Express, that help people get to different parts of the island, including popular tourist areas like Cala Millor.
Images for kids
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Example of prehistoric talaiot in Mallorca
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Archeological evidence indicates the presence of the porc negre (black pig) in pre-Roman settlements.
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Ruins of the Roman city of Pollentia
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Arab Baths in Palma
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A 1683 map of Mallorca, by Vicente Mut
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Satellite image
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Topography
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Municipalities of Majorca
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Enlargeable, detailed map of Mallorca and outlying islands
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A sculpture of Ludwig Salvator in Mallorca
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Chopin's piano in Valldemossa, Mallorca
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House of the poet Miquel Costa i Llobera
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Grave of Robert Graves
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Ensaïmades, a type of Mallorcan pastry product
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The beaches in the southeast of Mallorca are popular tourist attractions.
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Ars magna, by Ramon Llull
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Mallorca current rail map
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Badia Express Cala Millor
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La Seu, Palma Cathedral
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Lakes Cúber and Gorg Blau, Serra de Tramuntana
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Puig Major, highest peak in Mallorca
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Sa Calobra, Escorca
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Sunrise across Pollensa Bay, Port de Pollença
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Cap de Ses Salines
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Cala Agulla, Capdepera
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Aerial of Cala Amarador beach
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Aerial of Cala Llombards beach
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Platja de Palma beach
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Aerial of Platja de Palma beach
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See also
In Spanish: Mallorca para niños
