Petra a hidden gem in the heart of Mallorca
Petra in Mallorca is a charming, picturesque village located in the central region known as Pla de Mallorca. With around 3,000 inhabitants, Petra is an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil holiday in the countryside while maintaining good connectivity to larger cities. It also makes for a perfect day trip, especially on Wednesdays when the town’s vibrant market takes over the streets.
Rent a car in Mallorca and head to Petra, or venture into the island’s interior, where tranquility and open spaces abound for everyone to enjoy.
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The villages of Mallorca
The villages of Mallorca have a unique charm; they are calm, authentic, and sometimes a bit sleepy. Petra in Mallorca lies along the train line that connects other notable villages such as the wine town of Binissalem, the leather city of Inca, the trading town of Manacor, and the flea market town of Consell, as well as the bustling city of Palma.
Despite being nestled in the countryside, Petra boasts a cozy town center and offers delightful opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside on foot or by bike. Additionally, it’s only a 20-25 minute drive to the sea in the bay of Alcúdia.
Read on to learn more about Petra in Mallorca, including its accommodations, dining options, culture, sights, and vibrant town market.
The local market in Petra
Let’s start with the market day in Petra. Like many other villages on Mallorca, the town comes alive on its weekly market day. Every Wednesday from 8:00 to 14:00, you can stock up on local produce such as fruit, vegetables, sobrasada (local sausage), salted cheeses, and dried fruits and nuts. You’ll also find locally produced handicrafts.
Wine enthusiasts should try wine tasting at Bodega Galmes i Ferrer or book a tour at the charming 19th-century bodega, Vins Miquel Oliver, in advance.
In addition to the market, Petra offers a bicycle shop, estate agents, supermarkets, and pharmacies. Fashion stores are scarce, so for shopping, consider heading to Manacor or the shopping mecca of Palma. Take a look at Mallorcas markets or Palma’s markets.
Accommodations in Petra
For a cozy stay in the heart of Petra, consider the small, family-run 2-star Petit Hotel Sa Plaça. The hotel features traditional furnishings and wooden beams, giving character to its three rooms. The on-site restaurant serves fine Mediterranean cuisine, and the bar offers outdoor seating in the square.
For a peaceful countryside retreat, Agroturismo Son Sant Andreu, located about 3 km from Petra’s center, is a wonderful option. This original Majorcan manor house from the 16th century includes a wine cellar and chapel, set in a serene and idyllic setting.
Book a hotel in Petra or a holiday home in Petra with Palmallorca – offering a wide variety of accommodations across Mallorca to suit every preference.
Dining in Petra
Petra boasts a mix of cafes, local bars, and charming restaurants. Many dining options are centered around the town’s cozy square. Ace Cells serves local cuisine, and Can Salom offers colorful dishes made with fresh seasonal ingredients. C’an Oms is known for its grilled meats and delightful garden setting. Most restaurants can be found around Plaza de Ramón Llull.
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History and culture in Petra
Petra in Mallorca has a rich history, with numerous prehistoric settlements and talaiots in the municipality. It is one of the places on Mallorca with the most remains from prehistoric times. Artifacts such as pottery and coins found in nearby caves date back to Roman times. During Moorish rule, the town was an important area. The name ‘Petra’ means ‘stone,’ reflecting the sandstone that defines the region’s landscape.
Following the Catalan conquest in 1229, King Jaime I divided this area among his loyal knights. Petra became an important center of grain production during the 14th and 15th centuries, thanks to its fertile lands.
Petra is perhaps best known as the birthplace of the Franciscan monk and missionary JunÃpero Serra, born in 1713, before he embarked on his missions to America.Â
Dive deeper into Mallorca’s fascinating history.
The sights of Petra in Mallorca
Santurai de Bonany – The Monastery of Petra. About 5 km outside Petra, atop a mountain over 300 meters high, lies the Sanctuary of Bonany. This monastery offers panoramic views and has been a symbolic and religious space for centuries, where farmers prayed for rain. JunÃpero Serra delivered his last sermon here before leaving for America, from which he never returned.
Museum of JunÃpero Serra JunÃpero Serra has become synonymous with Petra. The House Museum of JunÃpero Serra, where he was born, exhibits many of Serra’s personal belongings, furniture, and manuscripts, offering insight into his life and importance to the area.
Sant Bernadà Monastery In the heart of Petra stands the old Franciscan monastery, Sant BernadÃ, dating back to the early 17th century. This was where JunÃpero Serra worked daily and pledged eternal fidelity to the Franciscan order. A monument next to the monastery honors JunÃpero Serra, depicting significant events in his life.
Sant Pere Church in Petra The large parish church, Sant Pere, towers over the town with its Gothic style and Renaissance elements. The church’s size indicates Petra’s historical wealth and dedicated congregation. JunÃpero Serra was baptized here.
Hiking in Petra Petra offers delightful walks through its quaint streets, perfect for exploring the city’s old doors and historical sites. A popular two-hour round trip hike leads to the Santurai de Bonany monastery located at Puig de Bonany.
Cykling in Petra. Cycling enthusiasts will enjoy the scenic country roads, providing an excellent opportunity to visit neighboring villages without heavy traffic. Explore cycling in Mallorca,
Top image for the article Exploring the enchanting village: Petra in Mallorca: Photo © Marieke Van Der Horst | Dreamstime.com
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