Museu d’Art Sacre: The Power of Image

Once there was a fierce dragon that lived in the maze of narrow streets behind the cathedral in Palma. It only attacked at night, terrifying the entire neighborhood. Finally, a brave knight managed to kill it with a determined stroke of his sword. Now, the dead animal turned out to be a rather small crocodile. Named Drac de na Coca, the dragon and its legend are deeply rooted in the culture of the island. Believe it or not, but you can actually see the beast, today. Stuffed and displayed in the Museu d’Art Sacre de Mallorca.

Housed in the Episcopal Palace the diocesan museum mainly shows religious sculptures, paintings and ceramics. Images of Christ and saints but also the sarcophagus that Carlos III had make for the remains of Jaume II.

Iconography

As artists used to be commissioned by the church or the nobility, the works also reflect how methods and expressions in the visual arts changed over time. And gives you an idea of the power that these images had in a time without media. What mastery the Catholic Church developed in communicating its messages.

Mallorcan Saints

The permanent exhibition comprises four spaces. Dedicated to Jesus Christ, Virgin Maria, Saints that are particularly connected to the island, and the Church itself.

The Museu d’Art Sacre is located right next to the apsis of the cathedral. You pass it each time you walk along Palma’s historic city wall. Maybe you have wondered about the almost triangular window of the gothic building.

The Gaudí Balcony

While the origins of the palace date back to the 13th century, the different bishops of Mallorca have each left their mark. Even Antoni Gaudí designed a balcony and a window grille in his unmistakable style.

El Jardí del Bisbe

You enter the Museu d’Art Sacre through an impressive patio. If you have some time left after the visit, take a turn around the Episcopal Palace. Hidden behind an impressive archway, the Bishop’s Garden is a peaceful urban oasis. At the ancient rectangular cistern under a roof of lush bougainvillea time seems to stand still.