Convent de Santa Teresa

Convent de Santa Teresa is a Baroque convent of Discalced Carmelite nuns in the heart of Palma de Mallorca, widely regarded as one of the finest Baroque buildings on the island. It sits between the Rambla and the streets of Horts and Tereses, with its address at Carrer de les Tereses 8, right by La Rambla 12 — just a short walk from Palma's cathedral, in the middle of the Old Town.

Who founded the convent?

The convent was founded in 1613 by Leonor Ortiz, who donated her own house for the purpose along with an adjoining orchard next to the Rambla. Construction of the convent buildings began the following year, in 1616. The church itself was built in stages: work started in 1624 and the finished church was blessed in 1637, with further construction recorded in 1648 — a sign that the project developed gradually over several decades, in step with the order's resources.

From its founding, the convent has belonged to the Discalced Carmelite nuns (Carmelitas Descalzas), a branch of the Carmelite order established by Saint Teresa of Ávila, after whom the building is named.

What can you see there?

The building is considered one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Palma, and its construction marked a significant artistic step forward for the island at the time. The most striking feature of the facade is its richly decorated Baroque portal, which is what catches most visitors' attention as they walk along the Rambla. Inside the complex, look out for the convent's cloister, typical of monastic architecture from this period, and the altarpiece dedicated to Saint Teresa, which forms the focal point of the church's interior.

How do you get there?

The convent stands right in the centre of Palma, along the Rambla — one of the city's main avenues connecting the area around Plaça d'Espanya with the historic centre. It's an easy walk from almost anywhere in the Old Town, and the nearest bus stops are located directly on the Rambla or in its immediate vicinity. It makes a natural stop on a route that combines Palma's shopping streets with a visit to the cathedral and the La Seu district.

When is the best time to visit?

Since the building is primarily an active place of worship and a working convent, it's best to plan a visit around the church's opening hours, typically during Mass or other services, which is when the interior is most accessible. The facade and portal, on the other hand, can be admired from the outside at any time of day, making this an easy addition to a walk along the Rambla regardless of the hour.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded the Convent de Santa Teresa in Palma? It was founded in 1613 by Leonor Ortiz, who donated her house and an adjoining orchard by the Rambla for the purpose.

Which order does the building belong to? It belongs to the Discalced Carmelite nuns (Carmelitas Descalzas), an order linked to Saint Teresa of Ávila.

What is the main architectural highlight? The richly decorated Baroque entrance portal, considered one of the finest in Palma, along with the church interior and its altarpiece dedicated to Saint Teresa.

Where exactly is the convent located? At Carrer de les Tereses 8, near La Rambla 12, in the centre of Palma de Mallorca, between the Rambla and the streets of Horts and Tereses.