Museu Llorenç Villalonga – Literary Heritage in a 15th-Century House
Tucked just behind the main square, the Museu Llorenç Villalonga is a quiet gem in Binissalem — the former home of one of Mallorca’s most influential 20th-century writers. Preserved in a charming 15th-century manor, the museum offers insight into Catalan literature, island identity, and the daily life of a literary intellectual. It’s a fascinating and peaceful visit for anyone with an interest in history, writing, or architecture.
Home of a Controversial Literary Voice
Llorenç Villalonga (1897–1980) is best known for works like Bearn o la sala de les nines, which explores the decline of the Mallorcan aristocracy. Though originally a psychiatrist by profession, he became a major figure in Catalan-language literature after the Spanish Civil War. His Binissalem residence, Ca’n Sabater, is where much of his writing and correspondence took place — and is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
The house retains its original layout and furnishings, preserving the quiet atmosphere of a mid-20th-century intellectual retreat. You’ll find original manuscripts, first editions, letters, photographs, and even Villalonga’s personal library.
A Thoughtful and Atmospheric Experience
Visitors can explore a series of rooms with well-presented exhibits on Villalonga’s literary themes, historical context, and personal life. Audio guides and panels (in Catalan, Spanish, and sometimes English) provide helpful background, and the shaded courtyard garden offers a calm moment to reflect.
Unlike larger museums, it’s never crowded — making it a more intimate and contemplative stop. The setting, combined with the historical significance of the house itself, makes it appealing even to those unfamiliar with Villalonga’s works.
A Literary Stop on the Cultural Map
This museum forms part of the Consell de Mallorca’s network of cultural sites and is often included in heritage trails through the region. It's ideal to pair with a walk around Binissalem’s historic centre or a stop at the nearby market or church.