Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

Overview

Es Baluard Museu d'Art Modern i Contemporani occupies an ingeniously renovated section of Palma's 16th-century Renaissance fortifications, blending historic ramparts with luminous white galleries. The museum focuses on modern and contemporary art with a strong Balearic and Mediterranean accent.

Highlights

• Rooftop Terrace: Walkable rampart walls offering views of the port, cathedral, and bay — one of the best free viewpoints in the city.
• Permanent Collection: Works by Picasso, Miró, Barceló, Tàpies, and other Mediterranean masters.
• Aljub Hall: A cavernous underground water cistern converted into a dramatic exhibition space.

History

The Baluard de Sant Pere, an arrowhead-shaped bastion, was built between 1575 and 1671 to defend Palma harbour. After centuries of military use the walls were abandoned, and the museum opened inside them in 2004.

Visitor Tips

• Free admission on Fridays from 17:00 to 20:00.
• The rooftop is always free — accessible from the external ramp even without a gallery ticket.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.