Alcudia's Old Town in Majorca

Surrounded by lush greenery and pine forests, Alcúdia is one of the most scenic towns in Mallorca. This wonderfully preserved walled medieval town is also known for its interesting historic monuments, delicious cuisine, and traditional festivals. The town lies a distance from the sea and was fortified to protect against pirates that were a danger during the Middle Ages. Of the ancient ramparts, only the Xara and Palma gates and the Renaissance-era Bastion of Sant Ferran remain.

Alcúdia has a distinct Old World ambience with it winding medieval streets and palatial Renaissance houses. Important churches include Santa Ana and Sant Jaume and the Baroque chapel of Sant Crist with a 15th-century image of Christ. Alcúdia also has archaeological sites as the town was built on the site of an ancient Roman settlement. Remains of Roman houses, a forum, and an amphitheater lie to the south of Sant Jaume Church.

Several interesting tourist attractions are found outside the town. For those who enjoy bird-watching, La Albufera natural park on the bay attracts more than two hundred species of birds throughout the year. A popular nearby seaside destination is the resort of Puerto Alcudia with its sandy beach, stylish seaside promenade, and restaurant scene. The coastline around this area also has many pristine coves of crystal-clear water.

The Yannick & Ben Jakober Foundation is an excellent modern and contemporary art museum (open to the public on Tuesday, guided tours only by appointment Wednesday through Saturday) This eclectic museum is seven kilometers from Alcudia in a beautiful garden setting with a sculpture park.