Sineu

Sineu is located exactly in the geographical center of Mallorca — and for centuries was the symbolic heart of the island. In the 13th and 14th centuries, the Mallorcan kings resided here in a palace, which was later converted into a monastery (Convent dels Mínims). The mighty parish church Nostra Senyora dels Àngels towers over the village and is an impressive example of Gothic architecture in Mallorca.

But the real reason to come to Sineu is the Wednesday market — the largest and oldest market in Mallorca, documented since 1306. Every Wednesday from 8 a.m., the narrow streets of the village center transform into a colorful, fragrant labyrinth of market stalls.

The market is divided into several areas: On Plaça d'es Fossar, the livestock market — yes, there is still a real livestock market! Chickens, rabbits, pigeons, lambs, and goats change hands here. Around it, the food market: fresh fruits and vegetables (the tomatoes!), olives in all varieties, local cheese (Queso de Mahón and Mallorcan cow's milk cheese), Sobrassada, Botifarrons (blood sausage), fresh herbs, almonds, dried figs. All directly from the surrounding farmers.

In the side streets, you will find handicrafts and household goods: hand-woven baskets, ceramics (the typical Mallorcan Siurell whistle!), leather goods from Inca, linen fabrics, olive wood cutting boards. In between, stalls with clothing, shoes, and the usual market stuff — just ignore them and move on to the authentic stalls.

The village itself is worth a visit even without the market. The honey-colored sandstone streets, the noble palaces (Can Font, Can Dameto), the monastery cloister, and the church with its distinctive winged lion (symbol of the Evangelist Mark, patron saint of Sineu) on the facade are worth seeing. In the former train station, there is a small art center (Centre d'Art S'Estació) with changing exhibitions of contemporary art — free entry.

After strolling through the market: Coffee and Ensaïmada (the airy Mallorcan lard pastry) at Café Sa Plaça on the main square — where villagers have been sitting for generations, watching the hustle and bustle.