Morning in Palma: When the Cathedral Writes the 'Eight' on the Wall

Morning hour in Palma: a small natural wonder in stone

Very early, when the Plaça de la Seu still smells of damp pavement and the first coffee machines at the edge of the square hum quietly, something beautiful happens: sunbeams pass through the cathedral's colorful panes and draw a distinct pattern on the opposite wall – many call it the 'Eight' (read more in Tomorrow morning: The light display in Palma's cathedral – a quiet natural wonder). This is not a trick but a brief moment that can only be experienced on two days of the year: early February and mid-November. Another reason to set the alarm and see the city in a calmer light.

Why getting up early is worth it

The cathedral opens its doors around 7:30 AM. Entry for the early spectacle is usually free, but: the number of places directly in front of the rose window is limited. Being there early not only means a better view – it also means capturing the special morning mood: the distant sound of ship bells from the harbor, a few seagulls circling Passeig del Born, and the voices of people arriving in jackets and sweatpants. Those who bring a thermos or grab a hot coffee from the mobile stalls immediately feel like an islander sharing a small secret with the city.

Practical tips for visitors

Patience pays off: security staff guide the groups, and the best spots are quickly taken. But even if you are not in the very front, the colors remain impressive – sometimes the projection on the wall looks even larger and more picturesque from the second row. Pack a light, warm jacket; in the square it is often cool in the morning, especially if a northerly breeze blows. If you want to photograph: be considerate. Tripods are tolerated, but please do not dominate others’ view with a tripod blockade – a polite 'excuse me' opens more doors here than a stepladder.

On site or at home in the living room

For those who cannot come in person, there are often livestreams (see Santa Cecilia on Mallorca: When Organ Pipes Color the Harbor Evening) – a nice service, especially for older relatives or families with small children. Still, the event in situ has its own atmosphere: the soft murmur of the audience, the click of camera shutters, and the moment when several people say 'Ah!' at the same time. If you are spontaneous, check briefly before you set off whether visitor numbers have been restricted – Palma's old town can be lively and sometimes surprisingly crowded on such mornings.

How the wonder becomes a whole morning

My tip: plan a little program around it. A walk through the La Llotja quarter, a croissant in a small nearby bakery (see When Palma Wears Flowers — but Also Trash and Traffic: How Mallorca's All Saints' Day Can Become More Sustainable), or a slow stroll along the Passeig del Born turn the short play of light into a pleasant, relaxed start to the day. These small rituals make island life: a morning when the city stands still for a few minutes and nature paints a window in the cathedral. Good luck getting a front-row seat – and if not: the Eight is also waiting for you standing up.