The “Castell de Capdepera” castle rises above the Puig de Capdepera, which is 159 meters high, in the northeast of Mallorca, just a few kilometers from the popular tourist destination of Cala Ratjada. This ancient fortified village emerged in the 14th century and has a rich and tumultuous history.
Visitors enjoy a fantastic view from the fortress over the inland landscapes, the picturesque village of Capdepera, and the coastline. On clear days, you can even see the lighthouse at Cap de Capdepera, located in Cala Ratjada. The Menorca Channel, a maritime corridor that separates Mallorca from the neighboring island, can also be impressively appreciated from here.
Important information for your visit:
- Perhaps the most impressive fortress in Mallorca can be visited from Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- From June 1st to September 31st, the hours are extended until 8:30 PM.
- From January 1st to February 5th, Castell de Capdepera remains closed.
- The Castell de Capdepera is also accessible by car, although the streets are extremely narrow and there are few parking spaces at the top.
- The entrance fee is €3.00.
Good to know:
The path from the center of Capdepera is quite steep and has about 150 steps.
Map and Location
The Castle of Capdepera is located in the city of Capdepera, in the east of the island of Mallorca, about 80 km northeast of Palma.
Capdepera Castle and its History
King James II ordered the construction of the fortress during the Middle Ages to protect the citizens of the region. The population was meant to live there safely during the era of frequent attacks by Ottoman corsairs.
In its interior, there were more than 120 individual houses. However, in the 18th century, many people abandoned the fortress, and gradually the small town of Capdepera was formed at the foot of the hill.
From then on, the Castell de Capdepera was used primarily by the military. In 1820, civilians lived in only four houses, partly because of the difficult relationship between the military and civil administrations.
When the soldiers also left in 1854, Castell de Capdepera, now deserted, was auctioned off in 1862. The fortress’s facilities were largely abandoned, with nature taking over through the spread of prickly pears, and only some smaller areas were used for landscaping.
Today’s Castle
Since 1983, the owner of the Castell has been the Capdepera city council. It was declared an official cultural heritage of Mallorca and today is one of the most beautiful places in the area.
The entrance fee of 3 euros (as of February 2024) is used for the maintenance of cultural heritage and necessary restoration work. Due to its impressive views, the Castell de Capdepera, visible from afar, is a popular destination for hikers.
The Capdepera Castle is one of the absolute highlights of Mallorca for the whole family.
Richard Hanke
However, I believe the historical background is just as interesting, and the ancient walls, watchtowers, and, not least, the chapel provide a fascinating insight into life in the castle during that time.
Highlights of the castle
Although only remnants of the original dwellings remain, there’s much to see. Tickets can be purchased directly at the main gate, dedicated to King Jaume I. From there, it’s worth strolling up to the highest point of the castle, the church of Our Lady of Hope.
The roof of the chapel serves as an observation terrace, and the view of the sea is truly indescribable. In my opinion, the best view of the coast and the Menorca Channel is from the Torre d’en Miquel Nunis watchtower.
It is also a must-see: the castle wall can be explored via a parapet walk, and it is a perfect spot to take a photo. In the former governor’s building, there is now a museum dedicated to palm basketry.
The fourteenth-century cistern and the four sandstone towers that once served for surveillance are also worth seeing. If we looked at Castell de Capdepera from above with the help of a drone, in addition to its fantastic location atop the hill, we would also notice the peculiar shape of this special place, reminiscent of an almost perfect triangle.
Conclusion
Capdepera Castle is one of the most impressive structures in Mallorca. Its view is imposing even from afar.
If you haven’t visited the castle yet, in my opinion, you shouldn’t miss it. Families, in particular, find it an affordable attraction that not only impresses adults but also makes children’s hearts race with excitement.
Attractions near Castell de Capdepera:
11 km
22 km
