A Historic Residence By Gaspar Bennàssar In The Heart Of Palma's Old Town

Standing on the prestigious Plaça del Mercat, in the heart of Palma’s historic centre, Palau Bennazar is one of the city’s most significant private residences. Designed in 1929 by renowned Mallorcan architect Gaspar Bennàssar Moner, whose work helped define much of twentieth-century Palma, this protected casa señorial has been meticulously restored to create an exceptional home where architectural heritage and contemporary living exist in perfect harmony. During the renovation, the entire structure was completely reinforced using steel beams, ensuring that a home that has been an iconic part of Plaça Mercats history, will continue to be so for years to come.

Designed during the final years of Bennàssar’s career, the residence reflects his mature architectural vision, drawing inspiration from Mallorca’s noble Renaissance townhouses rather than the decorative Modernisme of his earlier work. Original timber galleries, monumental stone detailing, handcrafted ironwork and elegant period features have been carefully preserved, giving the property an architectural presence rarely found on today’s market. Protected as part of Palma’s architectural heritage, Palau Bennazar is far more than a remarkable home; it is one of the city’s defining architectural landmarks.

Offering a total constructed area of 883 m², the building comprises an extraordinary private residence together with a beautifully renovated luxury boutique occupying the ground-floor commercial premises. This rare combination creates a landmark mixed-use property in one of Palma’s most desirable locations.

Beyond the original timber entrance doors, the residence immediately reveals its character. Historic stone arches, decorative ceiling mouldings and an impressive contemporary light installation define the entrance hall, while private parking, a guest or staff suite with an en-suite bathroom and a lift serving every level provide the practicality expected of a modern city residence.

The first floor forms the social heart of the home. A welcoming entrance hall leads through the principal reception rooms, while an internal patio introduces natural light into the living spaces and provides access to a private home office with an integrated bathroom. The bespoke kitchen is finished with natural marble worktops and premium Gaggenau appliances, flowing effortlessly into a formal dining room designed to accommodate up to twelve guests. Opposite, the elegant drawing room and library, complete with a fireplace and concealed television, offers a more intimate setting for relaxation. Both rooms enjoy magnificent double-height windows overlooking Plaça del Mercat, filling the interiors with natural light and creating a constant connection with one of Palma’s most iconic squares. An additional bedroom with an en-suite bathroom completes this floor.

The second floor is dedicated to the principal accommodation. At its centre, a dramatic double-height distribution hall is illuminated by an architectural glass light well that forms the floor of the rooftop swimming pool above. As daylight filters through the gently moving water, shifting reflections animate the walls and ceilings below, creating one of the home’s most captivating architectural features.

Occupying an entire wing of this floor, the principal suite has been designed as a private retreat. It comprises an elegant sitting room, a generous bedroom, a bespoke walk-in dressing room and a luxurious en-suite bathroom with both a freestanding bath and walk-in shower. The opposite wing accommodates a comfortable television lounge, a further guest bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and a separate laundry room.

A staircase from this level leads to one of several outdoor entertaining terraces, complete with a fully equipped summer kitchen beneath a retractable pergola. It’s an ideal setting for outdoor dining, relaxed afternoons and entertaining throughout the year.

The third floor offers exceptional flexibility. A fully independent guest apartment with kitchenette, bedroom and en-suite bathroom provides complete privacy for family or visitors. Adjacent to this is a spacious wellness studio, currently arranged as a yoga room and already equipped with a sauna, shower and bathroom. The space could equally serve as a private gym, art studio, executive office or additional leisure room.

The rooftop terrace crowns the residence with a private outdoor environment rarely found within Palma’s historic centre. A swimming pool with elegant water features, generous sun terraces, comfortable lounge areas and a built-in gas fireplace create an exceptional setting overlooking the rooftops of the Old Town. Whether entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening above the city, it’s a space that perfectly complements the character of the home below.

Throughout the residence, the restoration has been carried out with remarkable sensitivity. Original stonework, handcrafted carpentry and decorative plasterwork have been retained wherever possible, complemented by bespoke contemporary finishes, carefully integrated technology and materials of the highest quality. Every intervention respects the building’s architectural significance while delivering the comfort, functionality and refinement expected of a world-class residence.

The location is equally exceptional. Situated on Plaça del Mercat, one of Palma’s most sought-after addresses, the property enjoys immediate access to Michelin-starred restaurants, elegant cafés, designer boutiques, independent galleries and the city’s vibrant cultural life. Passeig del Born, Jaime III, the Cathedral, the marina and the waterfront promenade are all within a short stroll, allowing residents to enjoy one of the Mediterranean’s most desirable urban lifestyles entirely on foot. Despite its privileged position in the heart of the Old Town, Palma International Airport is just 15 minutes away, offering excellent year-round connections to Europe’s leading cities.

Properties of this significance rarely become available. Combining the provenance of a Gaspar Bennàssar masterpiece with an uncompromising contemporary restoration, Palau Bennazar presents a unique opportunity to acquire one of Palma’s defining historic residences. For those seeking a luxury property for sale in Palma, a historic townhouse in Palma Old Town, or an exceptional heritage home in Mallorca, this is a residence of extraordinary architectural importance, timeless elegance and enduring value.