Are you looking for an exciting excursion to one of the historical fortresses and castles of Mallorca? I’ll show you the fascinating stories behind these castles and which ones are worth a visit.
Majestic Fortresses under the Sun of Mallorca
Mallorca is home to an impressive array of fortresses that stand as guardians of a bygone era across the landscape. These fortresses bear witness to the island’s turbulent past, marked by conquests, pirate attacks, and military conflicts.
Each castle in Mallorca is an impressive fortress that is not only a historical monument but also an observation point offering stunning views of the picturesque landscape of the Balearic island of Mallorca.
Here I have selected for you the 5 most beautiful castles. Discover fascinating details about Mallorca’s history and enjoy stunning views.
1. The Bellver Castle in Palma
The Castell de Bellver, also known as the Bellver Castle, is a true jewel of Palma. This unique circular fortress, completed in 1309, initially served as a royal summer residence and later as a prison.
Designed by architect Pere Salvà, the Castell de Bellver, with its four large towers and circular courtyard, is a masterpiece of Catalan Gothic architecture.
Today, the Castell de Bellver houses a museum that documents the history of Palma. Visitors can explore the historical rooms, including the castle’s old kitchen and chapel, as well as the main cave of the underground cave network.
From the terrace of the castle, an impressive panoramic view of the Bay of Palma is offered.
Important information for your visit:
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sundays and holidays: from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., closed on Mondays. Between October and March, the castle closes one hour earlier on weekdays.
- Prices: Admission is 4 € for adults. For young people, retirees, and pensioners, the entrance fee is 2 €. Residents pay a reduced price of 2.50 €. Children under 14 years old have free admission. Tip: Entry is free on Sundays.
2. The Capdepera Castle in the northeast
The Castle of Capdepera, which was built in the 14th century by order of King Jaume II, proudly stands at the eastern tip of the island. In the past, the castle served as a refuge to protect against pirate attacks.
Today, the Castell de Capdepera hosts an exhibition of palm leaf basketry, offering insight into the island’s traditional art. Each May, the historic castle building hosts a lively medieval market that attracts visitors from across the island.
Important information for your visit:
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Between October and March, the castle can be visited until 5:00 p.m.
- Access and parking: The Castell de Capdepera is accessible by car, but the streets are extremely narrow, and there are few parking spots at the top.
- Prices: Admission costs 3.00 €.
3. The historic rock castle Castell de Santueri near Felanitx
The lesser-known Castell de Santueri is privately owned. It offers an impressive view and is an interesting place for nature lovers.
Although the Castell de Santueri is privately owned, it is open to the public. There, one can feel the fascinating history of the island while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Important information for your visit:
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Between October and March, the castle can only be visited by appointment.
- Access and parking: The castle is easily accessible by car. Free parking is available.
- Prices: Admission is 4.00 €. Children under 12 enter for free.
4. The Royal Palace of La Almudaina in Palma
The Almudaina Palace is located right in front of the Cathedral of La Seu in Palma. This impressive building was once the main seat of several rulers, including Romans and Arabs. Today, the palace is a museum that documents the rich history of the city.
Among the notable architectural features of the Palace of La Almudaina is the Royal Chapel, known as the Chapel of Santa Ana. It boasts a Romanesque portal made of pink marble from the Pyrenees.
Important information for your visit:
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. In the winter months, from October to March, the palace closes one hour earlier, at 6:00 p.m.
- Prices: Admission is €7.00 per person. Children aged 5 to 16, students up to 25 years old, and retirees pay a reduced admission of €4.00. Children under 4 years old enter for free.
- Tip: On Wednesdays and Sundays, admission is free from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for European citizens.
5. The ruin of Castell d’Alaró castle
The castle is a symbol of the indomitable spirit of the island. The castle was besieged for eight years by the Saracens, which demonstrates its strategic importance and resilience.
Today, the Castell d’Alaró is a popular destination and even offers the possibility of spending the night in a small hostel within the walls. Although the castle is in ruins, it attracts visitors with its fascinating past and the impressive view of the surrounding landscape.
Important information for your visit:
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Between October and March, the castle can only be visited by appointment.
- Access: The castle is not directly accessible by car. There are several easy to moderate hiking routes that lead to the castle.
Towers and Walls as a Sign of Defense
The defense towers of Mallorca are witnesses to a time when the island needed constant protection against the threats of pirates and other invaders. In the late 16th century, a coastal surveillance system was established in Mallorca to curb attacks by North African pirates and monitor the sea.
Although the days of pirate attacks are long gone, these towers still stand proudly on the island’s coast. Today, they are not only historical monuments but also popular viewpoints from which one can admire the breathtaking landscape of the island.
Torre de Canyamel – More than just a tower
The Tower of Canyamel is more than just a tower. This structure, erected in the 13th century, originally served for the defense and surveillance of the local population and offered a refuge against attacks from corsairs and invaders.
Today, the tower serves as a museum and a center for events and artistic exhibitions. This makes it a vibrant and versatile place, both historically and culturally interesting. The Canyamel Tower is a perfect example of how Mallorca’s historical treasures are integrated into the modern world.
Tower of Verger – The Secret of the Cliff
The Verger Tower, which stands high on the cliff above the sea, is a place full of secrets and legends. From tales of a mysterious missing girl to accounts of historical defense, the tower is surrounded by an aura of mystery and adventure.
Despite the wear, the tower remains in good condition and offers a spectacular view, making it a particularly popular photo subject and a tourist destination.
The Walls of Alcúdia – A Walk Through History
The walls of Alcúdia, which proudly encircle the entire old town, invite every visitor for a stroll. From the walls, there is a unique view of the Bay of Pollença to the north and the Bay of Alcúdia to the south.
A walk along these well-preserved walls offers the chance to delve into the history of the city of Alcúdia and uncover its rich past. These walls, built by order of King Jaume II, still shape the urban landscape today and offer visitors an authentic glimpse of medieval Mallorca.
Conclusion
The castles and fortresses of Mallorca are more than impressive architectural structures. They are witnesses to a rich and turbulent history that has shaped the island. They invite visitors to embark on a journey through time and immerse themselves in the past to uncover the stories and legends etched in their stones.
They are places of discovery, admiration, and wonder that invite visitors to uncover the island’s secret treasures and experience its rich history and culture.
