This Balearic Island Is Spain's Most Exciting Arts Destination-Here's Where to Shop and Stay

"Long before it became a magnet for sun-seekers and super-yachts, Palma de Mallorca was one of the Mediterranean's key trading ports. Its deep, sheltered bay drew merchants and sailors from Europe and North Africa, fostering an exchange of cultures that is reflected in the city's soaring Gothic spires, Moorish patios, and Renaissance-era ramparts. Centuries later, the capital of Spain's Balearic Islands remains a crossroads-but these days, it's becoming known for its crafts, shopping, and galleries."

"The city's artistic calendar peaks each spring with Xtant, a multiday gathering of textile artists and makers founded in 2020 by Madrid-based designer Kavita Parmar and Colombian fashion entrepreneur Marcella Echavarría. More than 80 craftspeople from 30 countries set up shop in historic buildings-such as the Baroque Can Vivot palace-to display handwoven rugs, embroidered caftans, tie-dyed textiles, and other wares."

"At perfumeries Arquinesia and Viti Vinci, the shelves are lined with scents made with Balearic-foraged botanicals such as fennel, orange, and bergamot. For ceramics, make your way to PK Studio, where Italian architect turned artist Roberto Paparcone crafts minimalist vases and dinnerware-and invites visitors to try their hand at the pottery wheel themselves. Set in a 15th-century palace, the bi-level Rialto Living is the brainchild of Klas Käll, formerly of the clothing brand Gant, and his partner, Barbara Bergman."

Palma de Mallorca evolved from a major Mediterranean trading port into a contemporary hub for crafts, galleries, and shopping, its architecture reflecting Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance influences. The spring Xtant festival brings more than 80 textile artists from 30 countries to historic venues to sell handwoven rugs, embroidered caftans, tie-dyed fabrics, and teach traditional techniques such as esparto-grass weaving and roba de llengües. Local ateliers include perfumeries using Balearic botanicals and PK Studio ceramics, where visitors can try the pottery wheel. Retail concepts like Rialto Living blend island fashion and homewares, while designers such as Rosa Esteva operate boutiques in the Old Town.

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