Campanar dels Dolors

Standing tall and proud in the charming town of Manacor on the island of Mallorca, the Campanar dels Dolors, also known as the Tower of Rubí, is a beacon of architectural splendor and historical significance. This neo-Gothic bell tower, attached to the apse of the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, is the tallest bell tower in the Catalan Countries and the second tallest structure on the island, surpassed only by the chimneys of Alcúdia. Its imposing height of 75 meters and intricate design make it a must-visit landmark for any traveler exploring the Balearic Islands.

The History of Campanar dels Dolors

The origins of the Campanar dels Dolors are deeply intertwined with the history of Manacor's parish church. The original church, known as Santa Maria de Manacor, was constructed around the year 1300 and completed by the end of the 16th century. However, this structure was demolished to make way for the current neo-Gothic temple, with construction beginning around 1890. The first stone of the new bell tower was blessed on December 5, 1905, marking the beginning of a new era for the town.

The construction of the bell tower was driven by the Montepío's intention to provide Manacor with a public clock. The prominent architect Gaspar Bennàssar, affectionately known as s'Arquitecte, was commissioned to design the tower. The construction faced several interruptions, particularly between 1915 and 1922, and was finally completed in 1923. The bells, an integral part of the tower, were installed in 1917, adding to the tower's grandeur and functionality.

Architectural Marvel

The Campanar dels Dolors is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture, characterized by its verticality and elaborate decoration, reminiscent of French Gothic style rather than the traditional Mallorcan Gothic. The tower is square in plan and features multiple superimposed sections of varying dimensions. The lower sections are adorned with pointed arch windows, while the upper section houses the clock and a gallery of blind arches. The tower is crowned with a spire in the form of a pinnacle, adding to its majestic appearance.

The tower's sculptural elements are particularly noteworthy, with gargoyles and intricate carvings adding to its aesthetic appeal. The sculptural work, both inside and outside the church, was largely the work of Antoni Pocoví, the major sacristan of the parish during the first half of the 20th century. His contributions include three significant sculptures: a small figure of Saint Raphael at the beginning of the tower's staircase, an image of Saint Michael at the left corner of the tower, and another figure of Saint Raphael at the right corner. These sculptures, along with two winged dragon figures, add a touch of mystique and artistry to the tower.

The Bells of Campanar dels Dolors

The bells of the Campanar dels Dolors are steeped in history and tradition. Bells have always played a crucial role in religious and social ceremonies, announcing festivals, tragedies, and calling the faithful to prayer. Historically, the task of ringing the bells was entrusted to the parish's choirboys, who also performed various other duties such as cleaning the church, opening and closing the temple, and operating the organ bellows.

The bell tower of Manacor has always housed five bells of different sizes, each with its own unique name and history. The largest bell, N’Eloi, is said to have arrived at the port of Manacor in 1260, although its first documented mention is from 1641. It currently rings in E-flat. Na Missetes, cast in 1816, rings in F. N’Esperit, originally from the Trinitarian convent in Palma and brought to Manacor in 1837, bears images of the crucified Christ, the Immaculate Conception, Saint John of Malta, the Maltese cross, and three seraphim. Na Vespretes and Na Vicenta, both dating from the 19th century, complete the set, with Na Vicenta ringing in B-flat.

Restoration and Modern-Day Access

Over the years, the Campanar dels Dolors has undergone several restoration efforts to preserve its structural integrity and historical value. In 1997, the pinnacle of the bell tower was reconstructed, addressing issues caused by cracks and humidity. The restoration was a meticulous process, with workers ascending 70 meters using a specially designed freight elevator to disassemble and reassemble the stones piece by piece. More recent renovations include the rehabilitation of the tower's staircase in 2019 and cleaning and maintenance of the channels in 2020.

In 2022, it was announced that the bell tower would finally open its doors to public visits, offering locals and tourists alike the opportunity to explore this architectural gem and enjoy panoramic views of Manacor from the highest vantage point in the city. The opening of the tower to the public not only provides a unique cultural experience but also supports the financing of the parish.

In conclusion, the Campanar dels Dolors is more than just a bell tower; it is a symbol of Manacor's rich history, architectural heritage, and community spirit. Its towering presence, intricate design, and historical significance make it an essential stop for anyone visiting Mallorca. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Campanar dels Dolors promises an unforgettable experience.