When you drive into Palma de Mallorca from the east you pass by one of the city's largest but perhaps most perplexing buildings. The huge La Seu Cathedral sits almost uncomfortably on the sea front with busy roads passing close by and only a man-made lake and a narrow strip of parkland separating it from the lines of traffic. It's size also makes it look unwieldy against the surrounding architecture, almost as if it was placed there temporarily until a more fitting location could be found.

The history of this building gives some indication of its predicament, explaining how perhaps once great ambitions have failed to materialise. The creation of this intended monument on the site of an old mosque seemed beset with problems right from the start of the construction project, with the architect's calculations proving incorrect and remedial work being required to the main columns. Even after the first 300 years of building work only the main facade of the cathedral had been completed. Over subsequent years various sections collapsed, earthquakes caused damage, remedial repairs were required and in the early 1900's the great Gaudi was called in to rescue and improve the cathedral. This looked promising as Gaudi's architecture is a defining part of cities like Barcelona, but the partnership suddenly came to a halt after ten year's of effort by Gaudi and it was left to others to complete the alterations.

Now the cathedral stands at a height of almost 50 meters and is certainly impressive if not beautiful in the eyes of some. That opinion can be altered if you view the building by night, lit up by floodlights or when you visit the interior for one of the many events it hosts. Concerts, traditional festivals and church services are held regularly and visitors are welcome. During the summer months the cathedral is open until midnight every day.

Palma is a great mix of historical architecture combined with some leading-edge modern design too. As a city, it adds another dimension to the already great holiday island of Mallorca.