Royal Palace of La Almudaina

The royal castle of La Almudaina is situated in the part of the city of Mallorca where there have been settlements since Roman times and which has been the seat of power on the island possibly since then. Remains of the Arab citadel, which was mentioned in 12th and 13th centuries references, can still be found in the layout of the present castle.

The castle was built in the early 14th century between 1305 and 1314 for James II and flourished as the seat of the court of the kings of Mallorca in the first half of that century.

The seat of the High Court since Philip II, residence of the Viceroy and the Captain General and administrative centre of the Royal Heritage on the island, the Almudaina is currently the official residence of His Majesty the King during his visits to Mallorca.

THE TREASURES OF THE ALMUDAINA PALACE

COURTYARD OF HONOUR OR COURTYARD OF ARMS

This is the current venue for official receptions of the Royal Family and a white marble lion is preserved as a reminder of its Muslim past.

 

ARABIC BATHS

These were for the private use of the Muslim Walis who lived in the old Alcazar. These baths comprised a cold room, a warm room and a hot room.

 

GOTIC HALL OR MAIN HALL

This is a large, solemn-looking hall; the most important in the Almudaina Palace. It was built in the reign of James II and since then it has been used to celebrate major festivities and to receive ambassadors. It was reformed during the time of Philip II.