Petra

A cradle of history and culture

Petra, a town with a rich Roman heritage, is famous for being the birthplace of Friar Junípero Serra, the Franciscan missionary who played a decisive role in the evangelisation of California. His birthplace, now a museum, offers visitors an in-depth look at his life and legacy.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Petra was one of the most prosperous centres in Mallorca in terms of population and agricultural production, especially cereals. The parish church and the convent of Sant Bernadí, built during this period, bear witness to the cultural and architectural wealth of the municipality.

Until 1982, the village of Ariany belonged to Petra, adding another layer to its rich history. Ariany’s independence was an important milestone in the administrative development of the region.

The legacy of Fray Junípero Serra

The figure of Fray Junípero Serra is central to the history of Petra. Born here in 1713, his influence extended to what is now California, USA, where he founded missions that are historic landmarks. The museum in his birthplace attracts not only those interested in religious history, but also those fascinated by the cultural impact of his work.

Heritage and tradition

In addition to the Fray Junípero Serra Museum, Petra preserves a rich heritage from its time as part of the territorial segment assigned by King Jaime I to his knights. This history is reflected in its architecture and in the traditions that are kept alive through its fiestas and community.