Gateway to Santanyí’s Medieval Past
A Remnant of the Town’s Defences
The Porta Murada is the most prominent surviving feature of Santanyí’s medieval fortifications, a time when the town needed protection from pirate raids sweeping the Balearic coasts. Dating back to the 14th century, this sturdy stone gateway once formed part of the wall that enclosed the old town, with guard towers and battlements standing watch over its narrow streets.
A Symbol of Survival
Constructed from the golden Mares sandstone that gives Santanyí much of its architectural charm, the Porta Murada has withstood centuries of storms, sieges, and rebuilding. Passing beneath its arched opening, visitors can imagine the life of a fortified town — traders entering with their goods, farmers bringing produce from the surrounding fields, and guards checking who came and went.
The Walls That Remain
While most of Santanyí’s original walls have long since disappeared, small sections still stand near the Porta Murada, hinting at the defensive circuit that once enclosed the village. Information panels nearby help explain the history of the fortifications and their role in the community’s survival during times of unrest.
A Photogenic Landmark
Today, the Porta Murada serves as a striking historic monument and a popular photo stop. Its location near the Plaça Major makes it easy to visit while exploring the old town, and it’s especially atmospheric in the early morning or at golden hour, when the stone glows warmly in the sunlight.
Address: Plaça Porta Murada (Carrer del Centre, 14A), 07650 Santanyí, Mallorca, Spain