Where did Chopin live on Mallorca?

There are actually two answers to this question, because during his first days on the island Chopin stayed with his wife, author George Sand and her children in a guesthouse on the outskirts of Palma. But they soon moved to a place the composer was fascinated by: Valldemossa Charterhouse, in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains.

Enthralled by the beauty of the landscape where palm trees were mixed with pines, fields, mountains and small stone houses adorned with flowers, Chopin lived in one of the cells that the monks provided in those days. The pianist was ill, however, and the sparse and humid accommodation further deteriorated his health. They only stayed less than three months on the island.

Chopin's legacy on Mallorca

Even if the pianist left few belongings behind, his stay on Mallorca did create an enduring legacy: the memory of those living in the village, his fame and the works he composed between the walls of his cell in the Charterhouse.

This is where he finished his magnificent series of 24 Preludes, the 'Raindrop' Prelude among the most famous pieces that he created on the island. He also found time to compose a polonaise and a mazurka, and to finish the iconic Ballade No. 2.

A visit to the Valldemossa Charterhouse

The Valldemossa Charterhouse (Reial Cartoixa de Valldemossa) is one of the most spectacular sights on Mallorca: a heritage gem that was constructed on top of the palace of King Sancho, retaining its full charm to this day. Its silhouette majestically rises up on top of terraced slopes abounding with crops and fruits ascending the hills.

A visit to the Valldemossa Charterhouse lets you see every part of this Carthusian monastery complex: the neoclassical church, the spectacular gardens – where you can take the prettiest selfies – the cloister and the cells, as well as the legacy of the monks who lived there for many years.