Cross of Discovery

The Cross of Discovery

The Cross of Discovery, also known as the Cross of the Landing of Jaume I, is located in Santa Ponça, Mallorca, and commemorates the landing of King Jaume I at the start of the conquest of the island, which was then under Muslim rule. The cross is part of a group of conmemorative monuments that that exalts the figure of Jaume I and his legacy in Mallorca. It is part of the Route of King Jaume I, along with other historical sites such as the Capella de la Pedra Sagrada and Bendinat Castle.

The Cross of Discovery (Cross of the Landing) is a tourist attraction and a historical reminder of this important feat. The monument, located in a natural environment overlooking the sea, attracts visitors interested in the history of Mallorca and its culture.

History and significance

The cross marks the spot where Jaume I is believed to have landed with his troops to begin the conquest of Mallorca in 1229. This important historical monument is considered a symbol of the Christian victory over the Muslims and the consolidation of the Kingdom of Mallorca under the rule of the Crown of Aragon.

General information about the Cross of Discovery

The Cross of Discovery or Cross of the Landing of Jaume I is located in Sa Caleta, a cove in Santa Ponça that is considered to be the exact site of the landing. This commemorative monument stands out for its reliefs that narrate this chapter in the history of Mallorca.

The cross, the work of sculptor Tomás Vila Mayol, was inaugurated in September 1929, seven hundred years after the historic event. It is made of stone and stands on a circular staircase that culminates in an octagonal pedestal. The monument features narrative reliefs that recreate the feat and are distributed on panels without a strict chronological order. Among the scenes depicted are: the landing of Jaume I, the arrival of the fleet at Santa Ponça, mass in the Christian camp, scenes from the battles, and the capture of the city of Palma.

Visiting the Cross of Discovery

The cross is located on high ground with panoramic views of the coast and the sea. Access is relatively easy and there is a small car park nearby. It is an ideal place to enjoy the views, learn about local history, and take photographs.

The area of Mallorca where the cross is located, Sa Caleta, is also the site of the Santa Ponsa marina. It is a freely accessible monument, with a path that includes areas of compact earth and areas with gravel and handrails.

Things to do near Cruz del Desembarco, Santa Ponça

Santa Ponsa is a tourist resort with a long beach, a marina, and a promenade. Here you can relax on the spacious beach, enjoy local cuisine in bars and restaurants, and go on excursions. The zone has archaeological sites and a nearby nature reserve with viewpoints located on impressive cliffs. Santa Ponsa is a good starting point for exploring the Tramuntana mountains and other areas in the region. Among other things, you can enjoy:

Santa Ponça beach: A wide beach ideal for relaxing and enjoying the sun.

Promenade: Offers shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere.

Santa Ponça marina: A place to stroll and admire the boats.

Puig de Sa Morisca Archaeological Park: A place to explore the culture and history of the area.

Islas Malgrats viewpoint: A place with breathtaking views.

Santa Ponça Yacht Club: Ideal for sailing enthusiasts.

Festes del Rei en Jaume: Popular festivities in early September with parades, a medieval market, and cultural events.

A historical and cultural landmark

The Cross of Discovery is a historical monument located in Santa Ponça, Mallorca, which celebrates the conquest of the island by Jaume I and is accesible via the King Jaume I Route. This important monument marks a milestone in the history of Mallorca and is a tourist attraction that draws visitors interested in the culture of Mallorca.

And that’s it for this brief guide to Cross of Discovery, or Cross of the Landing in Santa Ponça, Calviá, Mallorca. We hope it’s helpful.

By the way: Are you coming to Mallorca on a tourist trip? If you find it helpful, you can also check out our travel guide to Mallorca and more tourist information about the island

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Categories: Memorials, In Calviá
Tags: Points of Interest in Mallorca, Tourism in Santa Ponsa

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