May 2021. The Belgian government lifted the ban on leisure travel in April, but strict travel rules limited options. As the Balearic Islands – lles Balears or Islas Baleares – were a yellow zone, we booked flights and a hotel in Palma de Mallorca.
After the medieval Castell Bellver and lunch on the Passeig del Born we headed for the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, also known as La Seu. But the cathedral was already closed for the day, so we went next door to visit the Royal Palace of La Almudaina.
The Palacio Real de La Almudaina is the alcázar or fortified palace of Palma de Mallorca.
This imposing alcázar, known at the time of the conquest as Zuda, was rebuilt in 1309 by the King James II of Mallorca according to the model of the Palace of the Kings of Mallorca in Perpignan.
The monarchs of the Kingdom of Mallorca, the Kingdom of Aragon and the Kingdom of Spain have all used the palace as residence and office.
Philip II of Spain destined part of the building as the General Captaincy of the Balearic Islands.
The current structure of La Almudaina corresponds to the one built in the 14th century with its different spaces. The Kings’s Apartments, the Queen’s Apartments, the Chapel of Saint Anne and the Arab baths.
The ground floor retains a medieval vibe, with artworks from the 15th to the 20th centuries.
The upper floor, used for the celebration of official acts of the Royal Family, is decorated with objects and furniture from other Royal Sites of the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.
History
The origins of the castle are Romans. The Moors modified the place to an alcázar from 1281,
La Almudaina was the seat the Kings of Mallorca Kingdom of 14th century. During the first half of 16th century the upper floor was built by order of King Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor.
Summer residence
La Almudaina is the official summer residence of the current king, Philip VI or Felipe VI. His mother, Queen Sofía, née Princess Sophia of Greece and Denmark, lives most of the time in nearby Palace of Marivent.
A visit
You can visit La Almudaina. There was virtually no-one when we were there. You tour the palace quickly, but you get to see many rooms and halls.
Previously
- With Iberia from Brussels to Madrid in Business Class.
- Iberia Dalí Lounge in Madrid Barajas Terminal 4.
- With Iberia Express from Madrid to Palma de Mallorca in Business Class.
- Castell Bellver overlooking Palma de Mallorca.
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