The Almudaina Palace in Palma de Mallorca

Originally built as an Arab fortress, the palace became the official Majorcan residence of the Spanish Royal Family at the beginning of the 14th Century through King Jaume II. Although the royal court already had its official residence at Perpignan, Jaime II wanted to restore the citadel for his summer palace - so enter Pere Salvà who also built the Bellver Castle.

Standing opposite the Cathedral and overlooking the harbour, it is an imposing sight. Surrounded by a fabulous green space in the form of the S'Hort des Rei you can walk along shady paths or sit a while and listen to the gushing fountains.

Unfortunately many of the rooms are empty however as part of his design plan The King also encompassed a Royal Chapel, known as the Chapel of Saint Anne. Although it is quite small it is exceptionally beautiful and so well worth a visit. Its Romanesque portal is one of the rare examples of this style of architecture on the island and a painting by the Majorcan painter Rafael Mojer, from 1465, hangs inside.

Other highlights are Flemish tapestries from the 16th and 17th centuries illustrating Spanish history, 17th and 18th century Spanish tapestries and banners depicting the battle of Lepanto (1571) in which Spanish and Venetian fleets jointly defeated the Turkish fleet.

During the annual summer holidays of the Spanish Royal Familiy on Mallorca the Almudaina palace is the official office of King Juan Carlos I, being used for ceremonies and state functions.

Opening hours are: Summer: Monday to Friday 10:00 to 18:30, Saturdays: 10:00 to 14:00, Closed Sundays
Winter: Monday to Friday 10:00 to 14:00 and 16:00 to 18:00
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Almudaina Palace
C/Palau Rial, 20. Palma. Tel: +34 971 214 134

The Changing of the Guard
Published 21 Dec 2010
The Almudaina Palace in Palma is the scene of the traditional changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard
Published 21 Dec 2010
The Almudaina Palace in Palma is the scene of the traditional changing of the Guard