A journey through time: La Llotja de Palma

When talking about La Lonja most people refer to the lively quarter close to the harbor with its many bars and restaurants. My first thought, however, goes straight to the noble building that gave the name to this barrio – La Llotja, Palma’s former bourse of maritime trade. For me it’s one of the city’s most exciting buildings. I love the minimalistic medieval architecture with its pinnacles and octagonal towers, made from enormous blocks of limestone. And I adore the grim gargoyles that have been watching the course of history for almost 600 years. If only they could tell stories…

Entering through its heavy wooden doors you are surprised to find that the interior is but one huge light-flooded room. Six tall winding columns merge into a high vaulted ceiling and give the impression of a sacral building. But it’s downright secularly. Built in the early 15th century La Llotja controlled and protected the merchandise trade and the harbor. Today, it is part of Palma’s lively art scene and the perfect place for exhibitions that ask for an extraordinary venue.

Like Rebecca Horn’s installation „Glowing Core“, a beautiful yet puzzling array of mirrors, geometric figures, vertical and horizontal lines, light, and music. Rebecca Horn is one of the most versatile and inventive artists of our time and not easy to approach. She likes to challenge our imagination and always gives us food for thought. Her art is meant not only to interact with the viewer but also with the place in which it is situated. Thus, La Llotja takes you from the Middle Ages right into the presence. A fascinating journey through time.