Es Baluard opened in 2004 in a dramatically repurposed section of Palma's Renaissance sea walls and has established itself as one of the best contemporary art museums in the Balearic Islands. The collection focuses on Mallorcan, Catalan, and Spanish art from the twentieth century onwards, with particular strength in works by artists connected to the island — Joan Miró spent much of his life in Mallorca, and the museum holds significant examples of his work alongside pieces by Picasso, Tàpies, and Barceló.
The building itself is worth attention: architect Josep Lluís Mateo worked with the ancient walls rather than against them, creating a structure where historical masonry and contemporary concrete coexist without one overpowering the other. The terrace restaurant has views over the bay and is a pleasant place for lunch or a drink in the afternoon. Check the website for temporary exhibitions, which are often excellent and change the character of the museum considerably.