If you have always wanted to sneak a look behind the doors of the most emblematic buildings on Mallorca, here you go: Open House, the festival of architecture for non-architects, takes place in Palma for the first time ever. On 6 and 7 November more than 70 edifices and spaces that are usually not accessible open their doors to the public. Representing the design and architecture of la ciudad – Estilo Palma at its best.

Among the impressive list of places are well-known landmarks like the Castell de Bellver, the lighthouse in Porto Pí, and the Castillo de San Carlos. Or the Sert studio, Joan Miró’s workshop on Mallorca. Also participating are museums like Casal Solleric, the Fundación Juan March, and Can Balaguer. You can visit the stunning hall of Teatre Principal or the Parliament of the Balearics Islands. I particularly look forward to some hidden gems. Private and official buildings that I have passed so many times. Always glancing into the splendid patios, imagining what might happen behind those thick walls. 

Also, there is access to social housing projects, scientific and medical institutions, or the port authority. Making Open House Palma a real divers and multidisciplinary event. Aiming at opening the city and its heritage to neighbors, visitors and professionals. In order to support dialog and participation.

Admission is free but access to some buildings will be limited. So if you are interested in specific spaces, you have to book a slot in advance. You can also join one of the guided tours, the open walks and open bikes, or an open talk. The activities take place on both days of the weekend.

While this will be the first Open House Palma, the initiative is part of an international movement. Since 1992, Open House Worldwide has engaged citizens, particularly from under-represented backgrounds. To learn about architecture and city making, and have a meaningful role in shaping their future. Opening up physical buildings, special places and conversations to those who are normally locked out of them. Enabling them to demand a better quality of the built environment. 

Read more about the festival, the program and the people behind the event, and inscribe for the activities here on the website of Open House Palma.