Valldemossa: much more than just a pretty village
Valldemossa is one of Mallorca’s most iconic villages and a must-see destination in the Serra de Tramuntana. Its cobbled streets, the Cartuja de Valldemossa and the legacy left by figures such as Chopin and George Sand make this corner of the island a truly unique place.
The origin of the name Valldemossa
If we break down the words that make up Valldemossa, it seems to translate as ‘Valley of Mossa’, with the name ‘Mossa’ being the most intriguing part.
Until King James I’s conquest in 1229, the island was ruled by the Muslims and organised into small farming settlements. It seems that one of these settlements had been founded by, or belonged to, a Muslim nobleman named Mussa. Over the years, the name gradually evolved into the present-day Valldemossa.
An idyllic spot in the Serra de Tramuntana
Leaving Palma via the MA-1110 road, after just 20 kilometres you’ll arrive in Valldemossa. A beautiful village with a population of barely 2,000, set in a completely different environment, as you’re now in the Serra de Tramuntana. Mountains, lush vegetation and, usually, a cooler and more humid climate than in the city. In winter, the atmosphere is one of tranquillity and peace; everything invites you to go for a stroll.
What to see in Valldemossa
On arriving in the village, the best thing to do is to park your car and start wandering through the narrow streets, strolling along the pedestrianised area. Many of the façades and streets are cobbled and very colourful, with flower pots abounding. At the entrance to many houses, you’ll see a small tribute to Saint Catalina Thomás, the only Mallorcan saint, who was born in Valldemossa. As you stroll around, you’ll be struck by how Valldemossa is surrounded by the mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana, and at certain points you’ll be treated to some beautiful views.
But perhaps what people most want to visit is the magnificent Carthusian monastery, which deserves a special mention.
The Carthusian Monastery of Valldemossa
This magnificent building is the most iconic sight to visit in Valldemossa. Not only does it offer spectacular views, but it is also steeped in history. It was King Jaime II of Mallorca (13th–14th centuries) who decided to build a residence for his son, who would later also become king as Sancho I.
The building was most likely constructed on the site of what were once the former estates of the Arab nobleman Mussa, and was later known as the ‘Palace of King Sancho’. The building subsequently passed into the hands of the Carthusian monks, hence the name Valldemossa Charterhouse.
Some famous residents of La Cartuja
La Cartuja has been home to many famous figures who have spent periods living there and enjoying the tranquillity of Valldemossa: the writers Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, Rubén Darío, Jorge Luis Borges, Azorín, Unamuno, Santiago Rusiñol … But surely the one best known to have stayed there was the pianist Frédéric Chopin.
Frederic Chopin and Valldemossa
The famous Polish pianist spent the winter of 1838–1839 at La Cartuja with his wife, George Sand. It seems Chopin was suffering from tuberculosis and his doctors had recommended the climate of Mallorca. However, that winter was particularly rainy, and Valldemossa is a damp place, which worsened the musician’s health. His stay on the island was not particularly pleasant, as George Sand wrote in her book *A Winter in Mallorca*. A closed and conservative society did not make life easy for an artist accompanied by a separated woman who smoked and wore trousers…
Even so, Chopin was able to compose his famous work, *Preludes, Op. 28*, in Valldemossa.
Valldemossa’s famous “coca de patata”
If you like trying new foods, don’t forget to try the famous “coca de patata”. They’re the village’s best-known speciality, and you can enjoy them on their own or with a coffee or a hot chocolate. It is a kind of sweet bun/pastry made from potato. Both cafés and traditional bakeries usually serve them, so if you visit Valldemossa, be sure to give them a try!
Conclusion
In Valldemossa, you’ll find a wonderful combination of scenery, history, culture and cuisine. Strolling through its streets, visiting the Cartuja monastery and trying a “coca de patata” is one of the best experiences you can have whilst visiting the island.
And if you’re keen on local specialities, we invite you to discover a wide variety of Mallorcan products here: Discover the best gourmet foods in Mallorca
If you found this article interesting, you might like to read the one about Sineu, a ‘Real de Mallorca’ village. Follow the link below to go straight there: Sineu, a Royal Town in Mallorca