- Address: Carrer de la Llotja de Mar, 2, 07012 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
The building of the commercial exchange is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Palma de Mallorca, and, of course, is one of the main attractions of the city. It is located on Playa la Llotja.
A small historical reference
The construction of La Lonha began in 1426 and lasted exactly thirty years. The author of the project and the head of his performance was the famous sculptor and architect of Catalan origin Guillermo Sagre. The customer was the Chamber of Commerce. In 1446, when the building was almost ready, the customer was dissatisfied with the work of the architect, and the contract with him was broken. After that the construction continued for another ten years. The main building was completed in 1456, but some of the improvements were made later - until 1488.
The building, built as a trade exchange, was used for a long time as an exchange - businessmen gathered here, business meetings and business meetings were held. And then for a while it served ... as a granary. Today it hosts a variety of exhibitions, cultural and festive events.
How to look?
The exchange building is open to visitors only when concerts or exhibitions are held there; but it happens quite often. However, the building of the exchange must be seen at least from the outside! Incidentally, visiting most of the exhibitions here is free, so even if you are not interested in contemporary fine arts and other arts - just go to admire the magnificent interior.
The portal of the building is decorated with a statue of an angel - the patron saint of merchants. From the inside, the vault is supported by six thin spiral columns, which are unusual not only in their shape, but also in the absence of naves and capitals. The rectangular building is decorated with four octagonal towers, silhouettes of animals and statues. A real masterpiece that gives the building some "airiness" is the openwork windows. Also the ineffable coloring of the room is attached to the sculptures in it.
By the way, the "Silk Exchange" in Valencia has a similar architecture - when it was built, the Stock Exchange in Palma was taken as a model. After inspecting the Exchange, admire the building of the Marine Consulate, located nearby.
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