Banys Àrabs – Arab Baths of Palma
Hidden in the backstreets of Palma’s Old Town, the Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths) offer a rare and evocative glimpse into Mallorca’s Islamic past. Dating back to the 10th century, these ancient steam baths are one of the few surviving structures from the Moorish period and provide a peaceful, shaded escape from the bustle of the city.
A Window into Moorish Mallorca
The baths are believed to have been part of a private noble residence during the Islamic rule of Mallorca. What remains today are the caldarium (hot room) and parts of the tepidarium (warm room) — featuring an atmospheric domed chamber supported by a mix of Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic columns, likely recycled from earlier buildings.
The octagonal central room, with its star-shaped ventilation holes in the dome, is the architectural highlight. Light filters through in shafts, creating a mysterious, almost sacred feel.
Peaceful Gardens & Historical Setting
Although the structure itself is small, the real charm lies in the surrounding courtyard garden, filled with palms, bougainvillaea, and orange trees. Benches and shaded corners invite visitors to linger, and the quiet ambience contrasts sharply with the nearby urban energy.
Interpretive panels help explain how the baths functioned and their role in daily Moorish life, making the site both serene and educational.
A Quiet Gem in the Old Town
Tucked down a narrow street behind the Basilica de Sant Francesc, the Arab Baths of Palma are easy to miss — but well worth seeking out. They’re a unique reminder that Mallorca’s cultural roots extend far beyond the medieval Christian period and into a rich, multicultural past.
Address: Carrer de Can Serra, 7, Centre, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain