Mare de Deu dels Angels Church, Pollenca

Church in Pollenca

Placa de lesglesia de Nostra Senyora dels Angels de Pollenca
Placa de lesglesia de Nostra Senyora dels Angels de Pollenca
CC BY-SA 3.0 / RafelJuan

Mare de Deu dels Angels church, officially Església Santa Maria de Pollença, dominates Plaça Major and has shaped the town's story since the 13th century. Founded in 1236 and soon entrusted to the Knights Templar, this parish became the spiritual and social anchor around which Pollensa grew into one of the island's primary towns by the late 1200s. Today, its sandstone façade, soaring bell tower, and richly decorated interior make it one of the top sights in Pollensa and a natural focal point for local festivals, markets, and everyday life.

Step inside and you move from the bustle of the square into a cool, vaulted space laid out on a basilica floor plan, with side chapels leading your eye towards the high altar. The star of the interior is the Baroque altarpiece dedicated to Mare de Deu dels Angels, created between 1752 and 1764 by Mallorcan sculptor Joan Pere Obrador, surrounded by fourteen large canvases illustrating the Stations of the Cross. Whether you come for Mass, for the art, or simply to pause in the shade, this church is a living symbol of Pollensa's faith and identity and a great place to visit on a walking tour of Pollensa.

History and Significance of the Mare de Deu dels Angels Church

The parish church of Mare de Deu dels Angels was established in 1236, in the early years after the Christian conquest of Mallorca. Just four years later it was entrusted to the Knights Templar, who had received generous land grants in northern Mallorca from King Jaime I of Aragon in recognition of their role in the 1229 Conquest of Mallorca. Around this church, a new settlement grew and consolidated, and by the end of the 13th century Pollensa had emerged as one of the island's key towns.

When the Order of the Knights Templar was dissolved in 1312, its extensive properties, including this parish church, were transferred to the Knights Hospitallers, later known as the Order of Malta. They remained in charge here until 1836, shaping religious life, landholding, and local governance over the course of several centuries. The only surviving relic of the medieval church is the base of the bell tower, which dates back to 1470; the upper part of the tower that you see today was not completed until 1921, giving the skyline its current outline.

The present building largely dates from between 1714 and 1790, when the church was rebuilt in the Baroque style. It was given a basilica plan with a high central nave and vaulted side chapels, creating an interior that feels both grand and intimate. Inside, the focus is the magnificent Baroque altarpiece dedicated to Mare de Deu dels Angels, carved and assembled between 1752 and 1764 by Joan Pere Obrador. Together with the series of fourteen large canvases depicting the Stations of the Cross, it turns the church into an important repository of religious art as well as a place of worship.

Things to See and Do in the Mare de Deu dels Angels Church

Begin in Plaça Major, where the church façade closes one side of the square and sets the tone for the whole town. Take a moment to look up at the bell tower, remembering that its foundations were laid in the 15th century while the upper section was only finished in the early 20th century. From here, the church’s position at the heart of Pollensa is obvious: markets, cafés, and everyday life all revolve around this space, just as they have done for centuries.

Inside, follow the central aisle towards the high altar to appreciate the basilica plan, with its high nave and lower side aisles opening onto chapels. The altarpiece dedicated to Mare de Deu dels Angels is the main attraction, a carefully layered Baroque structure filled with sculpted figures, columns, and gilded details that draw your eye upwards. Spend some time looking closely at the central statue and the surrounding imagery to pick out the devotional themes and craftsmanship that made this work such a major undertaking in the mid-18th century.

As you move around the church, seek out the fourteen large canvases that depict the Stations of the Cross. These paintings line the walls and chapels, offering a meditative walk through the Passion narrative. Even if you are not religious, the combination of dramatic composition and the dim, filtered light gives the sequence a powerful atmospheric impact. When you step back outside into the brightness of Plaça Major, the church's presence in the life of Pollensa feels unmistakable, and it becomes a highlight of any walking tour of Pollensa.

How to Get to the Mare de Deu dels Angels Church

Most visitors reach Pollensa via Palma de Mallorca, with Palma de Mallorca Airport serving frequent flights from across Europe and beyond. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Pollenca on Booking.com. From the airport, buses, taxis, and rental cars make it straightforward to travel to the north of the island.

There is no direct mainline train on Mallorca linking Palma to Pollensa, so if you arrive in Spain by rail you will need to connect to a ferry or flight to the island and then continue by road to Pollensa.Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Public buses run from Palma to Pollensa and Port de Pollença, stopping within walking distance of the historic centre and Plaça Major.

If you are driving, good main roads lead from Palma towards Alcúdia and Pollensa, and clear signposting will bring you to the town and its central car parks.If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. From the parking areas, it is a short walk into the old town; simply follow signs or local maps to Plaça Major and you will find Mare de Deu dels Angels church on the square.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Mare de Deu dels Angels Church

  • Suggested tips: Step inside during a quieter part of the day, such as late morning or mid-afternoon, to enjoy the art and architecture without too many distractions.
  • Best time to visit: Weekdays outside major religious festivals are usually calmer, while Sundays and feast days offer the chance to experience the church during Mass and local celebrations.
  • Entrance fee: Free entry; donations for the upkeep of the church and artworks are appreciated.
  • Opening hours: Typically open during daytime and early evening, with extended access around services and feast days; exact hours can vary.
  • How long to spend: Allow 30 to 60 minutes to explore the interior, altarpiece, and Stations of the Cross, plus extra time if you linger on Plaça Major.
  • Accessibility: The entrance from the square is generally straightforward, but some interior areas may involve small steps or uneven flooring; ask locally if you need specific access information.
  • Facilities: There are no major visitor facilities inside the church; cafés, toilets, and shops are readily available around Plaça Major and nearby streets.
  • Photography tip: Be discreet when taking photos, especially if services are in progress; focus on capturing the altarpiece and the rhythm of the nave using available light rather than flash.
  • Guided tours: Local guides and walking tours often include the church in their itineraries, adding context on the Templars, Hospitallers, and the development of Pollensa.
  • Nearby food options: Use the visit as an opportunity to enjoy a drink or meal at one of the many cafés and restaurants that spill out onto Plaça Major.

Where to Stay close to the Mare de Deu dels Angels Church

Staying in Pollensa’s historic centre lets you step out of your door and be on Plaça Major within minutes, perfect if you want to experience the church at different times of day. A characterful option is Jumele Boutique Hotel, a small hotel tucked into the old streets within easy walking distance of the parish church. Another appealing choice is Son Sant Jordi, a townhouse-style hotel right on or near the main square, ideal if you like being in the thick of local life. If you prefer to stay by the sea while still having straightforward access to Pollensa and the church, Hotel Illa d Or in nearby Port de Pollença offers classic waterfront charm and a short drive to the town.

Is the Mare de Deu dels Angels Church Worth Visiting

Mare de Deu dels Angels church is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you are interested in the layers of history that lie behind Mallorca's pretty town squares. Its roots in the Templar and Hospitaller orders, its role in Pollensa's rise as a major settlement, and its 18th-century Baroque makeover all converge in a single, richly atmospheric building. Whether you come for the art, the architecture, or the simple experience of stepping from a lively square into a calm sacred space, this church offers one of the most rewarding and revealing stops in Pollensa.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (219)

Santa Maria de Pollença sits on Plaça Major 1 and welcomes visitors inside free of charge; the unassuming exterior gives way to a richly decorated interior filled with painted walls and ceilings, colorful alcoves with religious artwork and statues, and a cavernous nave that many find breathtaking. Visitors recommend popping in even briefly—doors are often open—and say attending a Sunday mass on market day is a memorable experience; some have explored up through a side entrance to reach a spiral staircase and enjoy views from the bell tower roof. Respectful behavior is requested as people do come for worship, and the space is praised for its atmosphere, art, and the echoes during services.

P James
5 months ago
"When you step into Santa Maria de Pollença and take in its beauty, pause and reflect: even the most breathtaking churches will one day turn to dust,yet they still point us to something eternal. If such earthly beauty moves us, how much greater must heaven be? Holidays fade, but the joy Christ offers never fades. Open your hearts to Him - He is the source of all beauty and the joy that lasts forever...."
Tezza
7 months ago
"went to 12 o'clock mass, on a Sunday, market day , wonderfull experience, amazing chuch"
Kevin McCabe
3 years ago
"Beautiful interior. I was impressed with the amount of paintings on the walls and ceilings. Didn’t get the full tour, just popped in after breakfast,but was happy the doors were open just to slip in and admire. Recommend popping in if you’re in the area...."

FAQs for Visiting Mare de Deu dels Angels Church

The church stands on Plaça Major, the main square in Pollensa’s historic centre, and forms one of the square’s most prominent and easily recognised façades.
Yes, outside of Mass and special ceremonies the church is typically open for quiet visits during posted hours, allowing you to explore the interior and artworks respectfully.
As with most churches in Spain, modest clothing is recommended, with shoulders and knees covered where possible, especially if you plan to be present during a religious service.
Local guides often include the church on their walking tours of Pollensa, and some may offer more in-depth visits focusing on the history of the Templars, Hospitallers, and Baroque art.
Yes, this is an active parish church with regular services; checking local schedules or parish notices will tell you when Mass is celebrated during your stay.
Photography is generally allowed outside services, but flash and intrusive equipment are usually discouraged; always respect any posted signs or instructions from church staff.

Nearby Attractions to the Mare de Deu dels Angels Church

  • Convent and Cloister of Sant Domingo: A beautiful Baroque convent with an elegant cloister that hosts Pollensa’s Classical Music Festival, fairs, and a small museum.
  • Pont Roma: A well-preserved Roman bridge on the outskirts of Pollensa that offers a direct link to the island's ancient past and pleasant countryside walks.
  • Calvari steps: A long stairway leading from the town to a hilltop chapel, rewarding the climb with panoramic views over Pollensa and the surrounding landscape.
  • Santuari del Puig de Maria: A Gothic hilltop monastery above Pollensa, reached by a steep path and offering sweeping views and a tranquil atmosphere.
  • Port de Pollença: A relaxed seaside resort nearby, with a long promenade, beaches, and cafés, ideal for combining town sightseeing with time by the sea.

The Mare de Deu dels Angels Church appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Pollenca!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Typically open during daytime and early evening, with extended access around services and feast days; exact hours can vary.

Price:

Free entry; donations for the upkeep of the church and artworks are appreciated.

Address: Església Santa Maria de Pollença, Plaça Major, Pollença, Spain
Pollenca: 0 km

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