A manor house with agricultural land in Mallorca is called a possessió. There are a few dozen of those around here on the island, all competing in their splendour and rank with the next one. You may know some of the more emblematic possessions around, such as Raixa, Alfàbia, La Granja, Els Calderers, Son Real or Son Marroig, from being able to visit them but, some of the more prestigious properties are not normally open to the public and are well hidden away from us mere mortals.

Son Togores in the municipal district of Bunyola is one of those classy estates which are usually closed to the curious eye. The property dates back some 700 years. In the 15th century, the estate fell under the domain of the Caballería de Canet and had its own chapel, a commercial olive oil press and a fair amount of land. About 150 years ago, the main house of Son Togores was remodelled in the Italian style by a Mallorcan business man who had made his fortune in doing trade with Egypt. A rare exception to visit was made the other day. I am glad I was allowed in to have a peep behind the curtains as it were. I understand that for a fistful of duros the house can now be rented for functions and receptions. Get your cheque book ready.

The photos were taken near Bunyola, Mallorca, Baleares, Spain. The date: July 7th, 2011. The time was 19:55:26 and 20:18:04, respectively.