Visit the Tower of Canyamel: A hidden medieval treasure among orange trees

In the heart of the Mallorcan countryside, surrounded by orange groves and historic stone walls, stands the Tower of Canyamel, a relic from the 13th century. With its rich history and immersive cultural and gastronomic events, this landmark offers a unique journey back to the Middle Ages.

At ROIG, we invite you to discover this historical site. With our car rental service in Mallorca, you can explore the island at your leisure and uncover hidden treasures like the Tower of Canyamel. It’s a must-visit for anyone passionate about history, art, and culture, and eager to experience the authentic Mallorca.

A journey to the past: The history and legacy of the Tower of Canyamel

The Tower of Canyamel, located in the Capdepera region, is one of Mallorca’s best-preserved defensive structures. Set amidst orange groves, the tower offers stunning views of the nearby coastline.

Originally built in the 13th century during the reign of King James I, the Tower of Canyamel served as a fortress to protect locals from frequent pirate raids along the Mallorcan shores. Given its strategic location in the Mediterranean, Mallorca was a prime target for corsairs and pirates looking to plunder its wealth. The tower provided a secure refuge for both the residents and their valuables.

As pirate threats eventually subsided, the tower’s role shifted. It came to represent the resilience and strength of the Mallorcan people rather than just a defensive stronghold.

By the late 19th century, the tower and its surrounding lands were restored, transforming the property into an agricultural estate focused primarily on citrus farming, particularly oranges.

How to get to the Tower of Canyamel: Routes and tips for your visit

Visiting the Tower of Canyamel is like stepping back to medieval Mallorca, but before immersing yourself in its rich history, it’s important to plan your trip. Here’s a handy guide to the best routes and some tips to make the most of your visit.

From Palma de Mallorca:

• Distance: About 70 km
• Duration: 1 hour by car
• Route: Take the Ma-15 highway towards Manacor. Continue on the Ma-15 towards Artà, following the signs for Capdepera. Just before reaching Capdepera, you’ll find directions to the Tower of Canyamel.

From Cala Ratjada:

• Distance: About 10 km
• Duration: 15 minutes by car
• Route: Take the Ma-4042 road towards Capdepera, then follow the signs to the Tower of Canyamel.

From Artà:

• Distance: About 5 km
• Duration: 10 minutes by car
• Route: Take the Ma-4040 road towards Canyamel, and follow the signs directly to the tower.

While public transportation in Mallorca is generally efficient, direct options to the Tower of Canyamel are limited. The easiest way to get there is by car, and at ROIG, we offer a variety of rental vehicles in Mallorca at competitive prices to help you explore the island at your own pace.

If you prefer not to drive, we also offer taxi services and chauffeured vehicles. Feel free to contact us for more details.

Art and culture at the Tower of Canyamel: Exhibitions and events you can’t miss

The Tower of Canyamel is more than just a historical site; it’s also a vibrant cultural centre that hosts a wide range of events and exhibitions throughout the year.

A major draw is the tower’s art exhibitions, which feature everything from contemporary collections to displays inspired by the local history and landscape. You’ll find works by both local and international artists, each bringing their unique perspective to this inspiring space.

The tower also serves as a hub for cultural events, including music, literature, and traditional celebrations. During the summer, outdoor concerts are a highlight, with classical music, jazz, and other genres filling the night air under the stars.

For families, the Tower of Canyamel offers activities that engage all ages, such as themed guided tours, storytelling sessions, and craft workshops. These events make history and culture fun and accessible, especially for children.

Historical gastronomy: Enjoy a medieval dinner at the Tower of Canyamel restaurant

A medieval dinner at the Tower of Canyamel restaurant is one of the most unique and enjoyable experiences you can have in Mallorca. Set within the ancient halls of the tower, this restaurant blends history and gastronomy to create an evening that feels like stepping into a royal banquet from the past.

The menu is inspired by the traditional recipes and ingredients of medieval Mallorca, reimagined with modern cooking techniques while staying true to the essence of the era. Every dish is crafted from fresh, local ingredients that have been staples of the Mediterranean diet for centuries.

The star of the menu is the selection of roasted meats, like lamb and pork, marinated in Mediterranean herbs and slow-cooked to perfection, just as they would have been in medieval times. The restaurant also offers freshly prepared fish, cooked simply yet deliciously, reflecting the flavours of the past.

For dessert, you can indulge in treats inspired by historical recipes, such as stuffed ensaimadas or almond fritters, paired with local sweet wines to complete the meal.

The ambiance is designed to evoke the feeling of a true medieval banquet, with dim lighting, robust wooden tables, and period-inspired decor, making the experience even more immersive.

On select evenings, the restaurant hosts themed dinners featuring live medieval music and historical reenactments, turning your meal into a full-blown spectacle.

Given the exclusivity of the setting and the popularity of the experience, it’s highly recommended to book a table in advance. The restaurant also offers personalised menus for groups and special occasions.

At ROIG, we provide the best car rental deals in Mallorca, allowing you to explore the island and discover extraordinary places like the Tower of Canyamel. Come and experience it for yourself!