Discover the Depths of the Sea at Palma Aquarium
Julio Verne once said, 'The sea is the embodiment of a supernatural and marvelous existence,' and indeed, '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea' (1869) is an adventurous book that allows readers to dream and explore the fantastic world beneath the waves.
Twenty years before the construction of the first submarine or the realization of independent diving suits, the French writer took his readers on a ten-month journey aboard the Nautilus to uncover many of the secrets hidden beneath the ocean. What would he have thought if he knew that centuries later, places like Palma Aquarium would exist?
55 aquariums, 5 million liters of saltwater, 8,000 specimens
While there may not be giant squids or whales—physically, at least—the underwater world reflected at Palma Aquarium captivates every visitor.
Located in the Can Pastilla area, Palma Aquarium boasts a total of 55 aquariums, housing over 8,000 specimens representing nearly 700 species from the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific Oceans.
One of the most anticipated aquariums is the 'Gran Azul,' also known as the Kingdom of Sharks. It is one of the largest and deepest tanks in Europe, holding 3.5 million liters of saltwater where impressive shark species like the hammerhead shark and sand tiger shark coexist.
Through the glass of the 'Gran Azul,' visitors can observe sharks up close, admiring their powerful jaws, gaze, and movements. Despite being portrayed negatively in movies and novels, sharks, in general, are crucial predators in the oceans, helping maintain ecosystem balance, with humans rarely part of their diet while swimming in the sea.
In Palma Aquarium, different shark species coexist harmoniously with other marine life such as rays, amberjacks, groupers, corvinas, and remoras. One of the most awaited moments during the visit is when divers feed the sharks, showcasing a peaceful coexistence and even playful interactions.
The experience is unique, and the sensation of being part of the ocean floor is achieved not only through the enormity of the tank but also thanks to natural sunlight filtering through skillfully designed openings.
Seas, jungles, and activities at Palma Aquarium
To uncover the marine depths and all their secrets, the aquarium is divided into various zones featuring other stars like seahorses, octopuses, and the famous clownfish and blue tang fish—Nemo and Dory, respectively.
The outdoor areas are dominated by tropical jungles and marvelous waterfalls where visitors can pause to take a deep breath and, almost always, capture a photo for lasting memories.
There are also children's areas, a bar, a restaurant, and a designated picnic space in case the visit turns into a full day, and the more prepared have brought sandwiches or packed lunches.
Some of the most popular activities include AquaDome, a marvelous 3D show where visitors accompany humpback whales in moments of their unknown daily lives; shark diving, an opportunity to see firsthand that the lion is not as fierce as it's painted; and one of the most successful experiences, the chance to sleep, sleeping bag and all, next to the shark tank.
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