Sóller - Cultural Landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana
Sóller, Spain
03.08.2021
Sóller is a small town located in the Balearic Island of Mallorca, in the Mediterranean Sea. It is famous for its picturesque landscapes, orange and olive groves, and its traditional architecture that reflects a mix of Spanish and Moorish influences. But what makes Sóller truly special is its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The history of Sóller dates back to the 13th century, when it was founded by the King of Aragon as a strategic port for trade with North Africa. The town was often attacked by pirates due to its valuable location, but thanks to its fortified walls and watchtowers, it managed to defend itself. During the Moorish occupation in the 10th century, Sóller was an important center for agriculture and irrigation, and many of its olive and citrus trees are still standing today.
One of the most impressive buildings in Sóller is the Church of Sant Bartomeu, a beautiful example of Gothic and Baroque architecture. The construction of the church began in the 13th century and was completed in the 18th century, with its stunning bell tower added in the 19th century. Inside, visitors can admire the altarpiece by Francesc Comes, one of the most important Baroque artists in Mallorca.
Another must-see in Sóller is the Can Prunera Museum, a Modernist mansion that houses a collection of art from the late 19th and early 20th century. The building itself is a work of art, with its ornate façade and stained glass windows. The museum also has a beautiful garden, where visitors can relax and enjoy the sculptures scattered throughout.
But perhaps the most iconic attraction in Sóller is the historic wooden tram that connects the town with the nearby port of Port de Sóller. The tram has been in operation since 1913 and is a popular way for tourists to experience the beautiful countryside and coastline of Sóller.
Sóller is not only known for its cultural and historical heritage, but also for its gastronomy. The town is famous for its olive oil, oranges, and citrus liqueur, which are all produced locally and can be sampled in many of the traditional restaurants and markets in town.
Visiting Sóller is like stepping back in time, with its charming streets, historic buildings, and rich cultural heritage. It is no wonder that this beautiful town has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving its unique history and traditions for future generations to enjoy.
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The Cultural Landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana located on a sheer-sided mountain range parallel to the north-western coast of the island of Mallorca. Millennia of agriculture in an environment with scarce resources has transformed the terrain and displays an articulated network of devices for the management of water revolving around farming units of feudal origins. The landscape is marked by agricultural terraces and inter-connected water works - including water mills - as well as dry stone constructions and farms.
Sóller (Catalan pronunciation: [ˈso.ʎə]) is a town and municipality near the north west coast of the Balearic Island of Mallorca, Spain, 3 km inland from Port de Sóller, in a large, bowl-shaped valley that also includes the village of Fornalutx and the hamlets of Biniaraix and Binibassi. The population is around 14,000. The Tranvía de Sóller tram links Sóller to Port de Sóller.
The Serra de Tramuntana (Balearic Catalan: [ˈsɛrə ðə tɾəmunˈtanə]; Spanish: Sierra de Tramontana [ˈsjera ðe tɾamonˈtana]) is a mountain range running southwest–northeast which forms the northern backbone of the Spanish island of Mallorca. It is also the name given to the comarca of the same area. On 27 June 2011, the Tramuntana Range was awarded World Heritage Status by UNESCO as an area of great physical and cultural significance.
