At 18km from the capital, this ancient Arab hamlet is found situated in a leafy valley covered by exuberant vegetation at 425m above the sea level. The origins of Valldemossa are said to be from prehistoric times and Valldemossa has always been a famous and favourite spot in Mallorca. The Romans and the Moors built their residences here. King Jaime II was particularly fond of this area and liked the 'El Pujol' Hill so much he built the palace, known today as 'Palau del Rei Sanxo' on its slopes. The church to be found here today was inaugurated in 1812; a good example of Neo-classical architecture.
Sta. Catalina Tomas, was born here, the only saint of Mallorca, known as " La BEATETA" and for those who each year on the 28th of July celebrates the most important festival of Valldemossa.
A very important piece of local history was the winter of 1838-9 when Frederic Chopin and George Sand came to live here. Their stay lasted just 98 days. Their party included George Sand's children, Maurice and Solange and a maid. Chopin was already established as a famous composer. George Sand was an open-minded, chain smoker, constantly dressed in men's clothing. Chopin was quite ill. Because the couple were unmarried, they caused quite a stir in the community. This is reflected in the writings of Sand who quoted the locals as barbarians and monkeys. They returned to France amid scandal and disappointment.
In Valldemossa one begins by speaking of the countryside declared " Historical and picturesque area" and of its defender "S'Arxiduc"- the Archiduque Luis Salvador of Austria- owner of various farms such as "SON MORAGUES", an obligatory visit, now converted into a museum, or "SON MARROIG" where in its beautiful gardens had a temple constructed from where one can enjoy some spectacular sights of extraordinary beauty. Another visit not to be missed along the coast is to contemplated from the cornice of the Miramar, a small peninsular, a rocky mass of some 80km in height with a large orifice-that is known as "NA FORADA-DA"
