The town of Pollença is one of the best places on the island to spend your holiday. The surrounding areas allow you to enjoy amazing beaches, hiking, traditional mallorcan cuisine in many restaurants and landmarks like the roman bridge or 365 calvari steps.
Calvari Steps guarantees some exercise during your holiday but the views from the top they are really worth it.
365 steps up
However Calvari not only offers superb views, it is one of the most emblematic places in the area, thanks to its impressive stairway. It consists of 365 steps, one for every day of the year, and is flanked by cypresses and 14 crosses three meters high each. According to Christian tradition, the crosses represent the calvary suffered by Jesus Christ on his way to Golgotha, where he was crucified.
Although climbing it sounds very demanding physically, the ascension is not as hard as you would expect. The steps are very soft and during the climb, there are places to rest. It is really worth walking but there is also a parallel access which allows you to reach the top by car.
The Calvari Steps are not just a place to visit during the day, either. At night, the steps are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic stroll or a peaceful walk.
Calvary Chapel
On the top of the hill there is a tiny church – the Hermitage of the Calvary. This Chapel and oratory was owned originally by the Knights Templar.
The oratory that now crowns El Calvari, a Baroque cloister built in the late 18th century, is in excellent shape due to extensive restoration in the 1960s. The stairway leading up to it was built mostly in the late 19th and early 20th century.
In the interior of the Chapel is a carving of Christ crucified.
Procession
If you decide to travel to Majorca during Holy Week, it is this time of the year when you can see one of the most important traditions of the area, during every Good Friday, the figure of Christ is removed from the cross and accompanied in a procession to the Church of the Virgin of the Ángeles, which is situated at the foot of the stairs. This ritual is performed with great devotion, in silence, and only illuminated by the light of torches.
But this visit is not only recommended for the believers, in addition, from the top, you can see incredible views, that will leave you with your mouth open, and not just because you need to take a breath after the effort of the climb.
Useful Information
Whether you are a religious person or not, the steps offer stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. So, if you are in Pollensa, be sure to take the time to visit the Calvari Steps – you won’t regret it!
In the town you can find numerous signposts to access to the Calvari Steps. You also will not be charged any service fees. On the bottom of the steps you can find bars and a restaurant where you can take a rest and enjoy the Mediterranean and calm ambience of the town of Pollensa.
Leave a Reply