Envision a hidden refuge. The Cova d’en Domingo awaits us in the Serra de na Burguesa. This cave has dimensions of 23 x 26 meters. Its height varies between 2 and 8 meters. This isn’t just any cave. It is considered a Site of Natural Interest.
Centuries ago, locals modified the Cova d’en Domingo. They created a space for longer stays. The entrance was widened. A dry stone wall was added. Imagine families seeking shelter here. They might be escaping storms or finding respite from the sun.
To reach Cova d’en Domingo, you must journey on foot. Starting from Palma, take the Ma-20 highway towards Andratx. Then, take the Gènova exit, Ma-1045. At the entrance to Gènova, find the signs for Mirador Ca na Burguesa. At the top, you will find the parking lot. From there, follow the path into the Serra de na Burguesa.
The path becomes narrow and winding. It leads down to the stream. The stream was once paved for transporting goods. Firewood, coal, and stones were moved along here. Little of the paving remains due to erosion. After descending two hundred meters, look left. The entrance to the Cova d’en Domingo is easy to spot.
Inside the Cova d’en Domingo, the main chamber has been prepared for habitation. The floor is relatively flat. This suggests human intervention. An esplanade stretches about 11 meters. It leads to a row of columns that act as a barrier. Beyond these, the ground descends a couple of meters.
Look around. You can see broken formations. Pieces have fallen from the ceiling. Stone was removed to maximize comfort during long stays.
On the north side of the Cova d’en Domingo, descend past the columns. Another chamber appears. It’s smaller but deeper. Here, you can see large polygons of retraction. These may have formed from slowly drying, trapped water.
The Cova d’en Domingo served as a shelter. It was a place of work. Evidence of this can be seen in ceramic remains found inside. These remnants suggest recent use. Part of a thick column lies on the floor. Perhaps columns once stood here. They might have been removed to create more space.
The Cova d’en Domingo has only one main chamber. However, there are some compartments. The left side of the cave lacks concretion. The rest of the cave is covered in it. A stalactite stands on the right. It may be a decapitated column. A flowstone covers the remaining area. A group of columns at the back resembles those in the Caves Petites de Capdepera.
At the back and to the right, descend two meters. Use your hands to reach a sump. Sediment is deposited here. This is carried in by water. The path to the Cova d’en Domingo runs through the Coma Fosca stream. Flash floods sometimes occur. Water can rush into the cave.
Some parts of the Cova d’en Domingo show activity. But not the impressive group of columns. Only one bat was seen inside. Yet, bat droppings can be found in several places.
Many caves and sinkholes dot the area. If your visit to the Cova d’en Domingo feels short, choose another to explore.
The Cova d’en Domingo offers a glimpse into the past. Imagine the lives of those who sought refuge within its walls. Their stories echo through the stone. Take a moment to appreciate the history around you.