Palmyra and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina
Standing against the shimmering backdrop of the bay of Palma, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina is a stark architectural timeline of Mallorca, where Moorish fortifications bleed seamlessly into the regal elegance of the Spanish crown.
What to expect — what visitors actually see/do
The palace tour is an intimate study of layering. You will begin in the Great Hall (Saló del Tinell), a cavernous space dominated by Levantine Gothic arches and immense tapestries. As you move through the interior, the aesthetic shifts toward the intricate, geometric woodwork and patterned tilework of the Mudéjar style, a testament to the island's Islamic heritage.
The highlight is the Chapel of Santa Ana, a jewel of Romanesque and Gothic transition where the sunlight filters through high, narrow windows to illuminate golden altarpieces. After touring the staterooms—still used today for official state receptions—step outside to the S’Hort del Rei (King’s Gardens). This public space beneath the palace walls features fountains modeled after Islamic garden aesthetics, modern sculptures, and thickets of orange trees that provide a cooling, fragrant escape from the Mediterranean heat.
History & significance — brief background
Originally constructed as an Alcázar (fortress) for the Wali of the Caliphate of Córdoba in the 10th century, the structure was repurposed by King James II of Mallorca in the early 14th century. The palace served as the seat of the independent Kingdom of Mallorca before becoming a secondary residence for the Spanish Royal Family. It holds the unique distinction of serving as both a working government building and a curated living museum, bridging the gap between the island's Al-Andalus origins and the subsequent Christian Reconquista.
Practical tips — opening hours, tickets, queues, best time of day
- Operating Hours: The palace is typically open Tuesday through Sunday (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM in summer; closing earlier at 6:00 PM in winter). Always check the Patrimonio Nacional website for state closures due to royal functions.
- Best Time to Visit: Arrive at 10:00 AM sharp to avoid the cruise ship crowds that typically descend on Palma’s old town by noon.
- Tickets: Booking online in advance is essential to bypass the ticket office queue. If you qualify for free entry (often EU citizens on certain days/times), you still need to secure a "free" ticket online.
- Accessibility: Much of the palace is accessible, but narrow medieval corridors and stone staircases make some areas challenging.
Getting there — neighbourhood, transport
The palace is located in the Casco Antiguo (Old Town), directly opposite the Palma Cathedral (La Seu). If you are arriving by bus from the airport (A1 route), disembark at "Passeig Mallorca" or the "Antoni Maura" stop. From there, it is a five-minute walk through the winding, cobblestone alleys toward the harbor front.
Nearby — sights and eats
- La Seu (Palma Cathedral): Directly across the plaza, this is an absolute must-see. The contrast between the palace’s secular governance and the cathedral’s soaring, Gaudi-restored interior is the defining cultural experience of the city.
- Ca’n Joan de S’Aigo: Located a short walk into the old town on Carrer de Can Sanç, this historic café has been open since 1700. Order the traditional ensaimada (a coiled, sugar-dusted pastry) and a cup of their famous thick hot chocolate.
- Passeig des Born: Five minutes away, this tree-lined boulevard offers luxury shopping and high-end terrace cafes perfect for watching the local life unfold under the shade of plane trees.