The ancient Roman city of Pollentia is a must-see for any traveller interested in history and archaeology. Located in the present-day coastal municipality of Alcúdia, it was an important urban and commercial centre in the western Mediterranean region. Its remains have survived to the present day in a good state of preservation.

The ruins are now easily accessible on foot or by bike from Alcúdia. Once there, visitors will feel as if they are plunging into the city's past as they walk along its ancient cobbled streets, discovering the remains of its houses, temples and public buildings. We recommend spending at least a few hours exploring the archaeological site to fully appreciate this unique experience.

La Portella

La Portella is a residential area made up of two insulae (blocks), which includes the remains of three houses, bordered by two streets and the road connecting them.

Let's start with the best preserved, the house of the Two Treasures. This house is named after the discovery of two coin hoards from the 3rd and 4th centuries AD during excavations. It is the best preserved and is notable for the clarity of its structural layout, with a central atrium and an impluvium. Its façade overlooks the street and the four columns that supported the porch still remain intact.

Interestingly, this house may have been inhabited long before the arrival of the Romans. At the deepest levels of excavation, archaeologists found the remains of what could have been a hut from the Talayotic period.

Just opposite, on the same street, is the residence known as the house of the Bronze Head where the famous bronze head of a girl was discovered, currently on display at the Monographic Museum of Pollentia. Finally, the Northwest house, the worst preserved, is a domus built around a courtyard. The remains of the Roman wall dating to the 3rd century AD can be seen on its foundations.

The Forum

From the Portella, head towards the Forum, the heart of the Roman city. This space was the backdrop to political, commercial and social activities. Here, you can see the remains of public buildings, temples and the central square which was once surrounded by

columns and porticoes. Take a moment to imagine what daily life was like at the forum, with the hustle and bustle at the tabernae (which in today’s world would be similar to a shopping centre) and the political discussions that took place in this important space.

The theatre

The theatre, erected in the 1st century AD, was an entertainment and culture hub for the city's residents. Marvel at the theatre's architecture, which features semicircular steps carved into the rock, taking advantage of the natural slope, and an impressive stage, where nowadays plays are performed in summer, taking advantage of the uniqueness and magic of the place.

Yet to put it on your list of must sees in Mallorca? Don't think twice! A visit to the Roman ruins of Pollentia offers an educational and inspiring experience, it is ideal for a family visit and offers the opportunity to better understand the history and culture of Mallorca. In addition, the Monographic Museum allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich legacy of ancient Pollentia through the collection of artefacts and objects that have been found as part of the site’s excavations. Safe travels!