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The Almudaina Palacio is one of the oldest buildings on the island of Mallorca. It was built 11 centuries ago, in the 10th century. But it is not only its age that makes the Almudaina Palace solid. Once inside, the visitor will be able to appreciate its decoration, architecture and uniqueness.
Until 1230, the Almudaina Palace served as the residence of Arab viziers. When Jaime I the Conqueror came to Mallorca, it became the seat of the new ruler of Mallorca, who later became King of Aragon.
Despite the passage of so many years, the Almudaina Palace still retains its status as a royal palace. Although the royal dynasty of Spain now owns only half of the building. The second half houses the country’s National Museum, which will be especially interesting to visit for people who love history.
The walls of the palace have witnessed a great number of events, and they have seen many high-ranking persons of blue blood. If the walls could talk, they would tell a lot of interesting secrets and stories.
The Almudaina Palace is considered one of the most famous long-standing creations of Moorish architecture and the oldest palace of its kind in Spain.
The history of Almudaina Palace
Before the arrival of the Moors, the Romans ruled the island. As was customary in that ancient era, cities were always fortified with fortresses. That’s when a defensive fortress was built on the site of the palace. After the fall of the Roman Empire, when the Moors came to the island, some time later the fortress was destroyed and a palace was built. By the way, despite the lack of similarity between the Palace and the fortress, Almudaina translates from Arabic as “fortress”.
The palace acquired its modern appearance in the XIV century after the reconstruction ordered by King Jaime II the Just. The palace was given Gothic features and was called the royal abode. Traces of different epochs have left their marks on the Palace. Each new ruler changed the interior to his own taste. This is how the Great Hall for receptions, the Royal Hall, St. Anne’s Chapel and the Armory appeared in the Palace.
The Almudaina Palace is currently used by the ruling royal family as an official residence for state ceremonies and receptions during the summer. Its interior highlights paintings and furniture from different historical eras, as well as an excellent collection of tapestries.
At the foot of the Almudaina Palace is the King’s Garden. These gardens have numerous pavilions, fountains and a pond.
Changing of the guard of honor at the Almudaina Palace
On the last Saturday of every month at 12:00 noon there is a change of honor guard near the Almudaina Palace.
About twenty soldiers dressed in 1808 period uniforms, armed with rifles, muskets and sabers, take part in this action. This spectacle looks very spectacular and is accompanied by the sound of a drum.
Schedule and cost of admission to the Palace
The basic entrance fee to the Almudaina Palace is 7 euros per person. Children from 5 to 16 years of age, people over 65, students up to 25 years of age (you must present an identification document) cost 4 euros. Children under 5 years of age and people with disabilities (and their escort) are free of charge. It is also free for everyone to enter the Almudaina Palace on May 18 and October 12.
On Wednesdays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sundays from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, free admission for European Union citizens, residents and EU work permit holders. These tickets can only be purchased at the box office.
