Palma Under Pressure: Artisans Complain About Rising Pickpocketing at La Seu

Silent alarm at the foot of the cathedral

Early Thursday morning, around 09:30, the artisans sit as they do every day on the shady benches of s’Hort del Rei. The scent of freshly brewed coffee blends with the smell of tourist sunscreen – and with a quiet tension. "We see these scenes again and again," says Toni, who has sold ceramics for ten years. "Older cruise passengers with backpacks are the main target."

The traders describe short, routine gestures: a jacket is held up, a city map covers the movement, and the wallet is gone. Most of the time everything happens so fast that victims can't react. "Sometimes it only takes seconds," adds Marta, who offered handmade bags. "Then the group has already moved on."

Lack of presence, loud criticism

What annoys the sellers most: the police are rarely visible. Instead, controls are repeatedly directed at street vendors — people selling bottled water and souvenirs. "The little guys constantly get into trouble, but the thieves roam free," says a vendor and shakes his head. A water seller nods and points to a spot on the stairs: "That's where it's most dangerous."

Photos of repeatedly appearing suspects switch between stalls on mobile phones. Some traders have simple countermeasures: extra warning signs in the morning, loud shouts, even flyers with tips for older visitors. But that is not enough for many.

Practical demands instead of big promises

The traders demand no miracles, only practical steps: more foot patrols during peak times, information boards at the cruise ship dock, clearer indications where toilets and accessible routes to the cathedral are. "It would help people and give us some support," says Marta.

In Palma you can feel the discussion between cityscape, tourism and public safety. For the small entrepreneurs at s’Hort del Rei it is no longer a theoretical problem. They simply want someone to look — before more trust is lost.

If you are in the old town: watch your bag, keep valuables close to your body and speak to vendors if something seems odd. People here usually help.