Iglesia de Montesión (Mount Zion), Palma

Church in Palma

Església De Monti-sion De Palma
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Drozi Yarka

The church of Monti Sion in Palma is a significant symbol of sociocultural influences on the city. Built atop the former Jewish main synagogue, it was constructed by the Jesuits who arrived in Mallorca in 1561, with construction commencing in 1571. However, the Jesuits faced opposition from the royal crown due to their substantial economic and cultural influence, leading to their suppression from 1767 to 1815.

Architecturally, Monti Sion is a remarkable example of Baroque style in Mallorca. The main facade stands out prominently, featuring a large coat of arms within the tympanum, flanked by two angels. This coat of arms belongs to Ramon de Verí, the church’s founder. On either side of the tympanum, statues of the first Jesuit saints, St. Ignatius of Loyola on the left and Francis Xavier on the right, can be seen. Above the portal is an image of the Immaculate Conception, crowning the entrance, while below it, there is a half-moon with a representation of the devil in the form of a beast. Higher up, you’ll find St. Ignatius’ coat of arms, and an arched gutter adds a finishing touch. The upper part of the facade boasts a rose window with simple moldings and a triangular pediment.

The church’s floor plan consists of a single nave with six side chapels on each side. The nave features a barrel vault with lunettes, supported by fluted pilasters. Monti Sion’s architectural grandeur and historical significance make it a notable landmark in Palma.

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Visiting Iglesia de Montesión (Mount Zion), Palma

Address: Monti-Sion, Palma, Spain
Duration: 20 minutes

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