Royal Palace of La Almudaina

Palma, Spain

The Royal Palace of La Almudaina, Spanish Palacio Real de La Almudaina, is the Alcázar (fortified palace) of Palma, the capital city of the Island of Majorca, Spain. Built as an Arabian Fort, the crown claimed it as official royal residence in the early 14th century. Inside are many empty rooms, however, when King James II began restoration, his design plan included the encompassing of the small, romanesque Chapel of Saint Anne. It stands opposite the dramatic Palma Cathedral with commanding views over the Bay of Palma.

The palace is owned by the Spanish government and operated by Patrimonio Nacional, an agency of the Minister of the Presidency that manages assets of the State for the Crown. Nowadays, the Royal Family uses it as an official residence for ceremonies and State receptions, having their private summer residence in the Palace of Marivent on the outskirts of Palma.

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Details

Founded: 14th century
Category: Palaces, manors and town halls in Spain

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Bianca B (17 months ago)
For only 7€ you get to see a real part of history. Originally build by the Arabs before Christian’s took over, this is one of the oldest buildings you’ll find in the island and offers impressive views of the port and the cathedral.
Tristrum Bolton (18 months ago)
id recommenced visisiting here should you visit Majorca. Its easily accessible, and tickets are very affordable. Regarding calling it a palace, it doesn't feel much like one of those, there is anything grand about it in my opinion, the rooms and corridors are very small and can feel quite claustrophobic if you happen to be on a fully booked tour.
Rishi Mistry (19 months ago)
The palace is a great place to learn about pre-Hispanic/Moorish and Spanish history, art, culture, and architecture. They offer an audio guide for an additional fee, which we forewent (though I’m sure there were good nuggets of information not shared on the plaques in the museum). We spent about an hour and a half here which I felt like was plenty of time.
Craig Childress Johnson (22 months ago)
This review is specifically for the St Anne's chapel contained within the larger palace. The chapel is one of the most comfortable religious spaces I've been in. A beautiful gothic space that is smallish and not over decorated. It has remained essentially unchanged since the 14th century. I think I paid a whole 4 euros for the whole palace and the chapel. Everything about the palace, staff, and chapel were delightful. If you are going to the cathedral next to the palace, check opening hours and make a plan to do both.
Ricky D'Costa (2 years ago)
The combination of Arabic and European architecture and internal designs, makes this a visually stunning and historic masterpiece to be explored by everyone. Each room has sea views, making one wonder what life in the past would have been like. Definitely worth checking out if you are a fan of historical sites!
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