A look at the Royal Palace of La Almudaina

As the Spanish royals spend their time in Palma de la Mallorca, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina has been the setting for several royal events. 

The Royal Palace of La Almudaina is one of the official royal residences for Spain’s monarchy, and the family traditionally spends time there at Easter and in the summer.

Located on the island of Mallorca, the residence sits across from Palma Cathedral. Although it was first constructed during Roman times, it was originally used as an Arabian fortress during a period of Islamic rule before Christians regained the island during the conquest in 1229.

King James II of Majorca launched a programme to change the appearance of the city, including converting the fortress into a palace.

Renovation work began in 1305, and a Great Hall, St Anne Chapel and sculpture of the Archangel St Gabriel were added to the grounds. An additional floor was added on the order of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V in the first half of the 16th century.

The Courtyard of Honour is the setting for receptions, and a white marble lion was preserved from the Muslim occupation. There are also Arabic Baths that were previously used for Muslim Walis who lived in the old fortress.

King Felipe is pictured in the palace with the President of the Consell de Mallorca. © Casa de SM el Rey

Inside, the solemn-looking Main Hall serves as a reception hall for ambassadors and hosts major events.

Alongside the Palma Cathedral, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina is a landmark in Palma.

The Royal Palace of La Almudaina is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm. There is free entry from 3 pm to 7 pm on Wednesday and Sunday.