Alcudia is a beguiling ancient town surrounded by imposing stone walls. Stroll past its quaint plazas, stone houses and the island’s most important Roman settlement to see a cultural side of Mallorca that is absent in many of the nearby beach resorts.
The village was originally settled between 2000 and 1300 B.C. The settlement flourished beginning in the second century B.C. After the decline of the Roman Empire in the third century A.D., the town was destroyed by Vandals. It was rebuilt and ruled by the Moors until the Spanish conquest in the 13th century.
Look at the city’s medieval walls, which were added by the Spanish in the 14th century. Head to the Porta Roja (Red Gate), one of the city’s two entrance gates, and find the 18th-century bridge that provides access to the top of the walls. As you walk along the walls, admire the views over the city. Most of the walls are modern reconstructions, but be alert for a section of original medieval wall on the north side.
Don’t miss the Church of Sant Jaume, which was constructed in the 14th century. Inside, you’ll find a small museum displaying historic vestments and other religious artifacts.
Visit the ruins of the Roman town of Pollentia, located just outside the city walls. Dating back to around 70 B.C., Pollentia is considered to be one of the most important archeological sites on the island.
Be sure to see Casa dels Dos Tresors (House of the Two Treasures), a typical Roman house built in the first century. Look for the Teatre Romà (Roman Theater), which is dramatically carved into the island’s rocky terrain.
Tuesdays and Sundays are the liveliest days of the week to visit Alcudia, when a popular market takes place in the Old Town. Stroll around the stalls, which are stacked with linens, leather goods and other souvenirs, or watch the action from the terrace of a nearby café.
Alcudia is located in the northern part of Mallorca. Reach the town by bus from the capital, Palma.
