Published in Returning to Eden

Keywords: Keywords: Architecture, Gothic-Renaissance, Heritage, Inscriptions, Mallorca, Medieval Catalan, Princeton University Art Museum, Reconstruction, Restoration, Translation.

In this paper, the staircase on Calle del Agua in Palma de Mallorca, previously considered lost, is studied from its documented Gothic-Renaissance historical context by Domenge Mesquida and Byne to its heritage significance. Specifically, it explains my experience as a researcher with the staircase, having to face complex challenges in identifying, reconstructing, and translating into English the inscriptions that adorn it. For the first time, the transcription and translation of the text on the stairway –medieval Catalan prayers– are presented, accompanied by photographs, thus highlighting its cultural and spiritual relevance. The collaboration of the curator from the Princeton University Art Museum in this significant discovery of Mallorca's architectural legacy is also acknowledged.