CASTLES & FORTRESSES IN MALLORCA

The Bellver castle is one of the most unique Spanish castles, due to its round construction and stunning location. It was in fact the location that gave the castle its name, as Bellver means “beautiful view”. Inside the castle you will also find the local history museum of Palma, an incredible exhibition of artifacts collected all the way back from Roman times. Bellver is one of the main attractions of Palma, you truly have a great experience waiting for you.

Almudaina was originally built by the first Moorish governor of the island, Issam al-Khawlani, whom conquered the archipelago in 902. Almudaina was the first and most important fortress and seat of governors and kings up through the Middle Ages and modern age. Today, the palace is used for official meetings of the royal family, as well as a museum exhibiting interesting collections from different periods of the island.

On the list of the most historically important fortresses in Mallorca, it is impossible not to mention Santueri. The fortress was the last Moorish stronghold during the Catalan conquest, and has several times since housed the local population in times of need. Moreover, the Santueri castle is listed as one of the ten most spectacular fortresses in Spain.

The Alaró castle is situated at a mountaintop, in 815 meters height. This historical place was the scene of one of the bloodiest battles ever fought on the island, and has always been an important strategic point. Castell d’Alaró is one of the most interesting and beautiful places you can walk to, and, it is possible to stay at the small hostel up here.

Castell de Capdepera was built in the early 1300’s as a fortress to protect the new small population center that arrived after the Catalan conquest. From inside the fortress, you can discover how people lived here, see the old chapel, mill and impressive defensive walls and towers. From the top, you can see all the way to Menorca and you will suddenly understand the strategic importance of this place.

Castell del Rei, or the king’s castle, is an old Moorish fortress built at the ridge overlooking Pollenca and Cala Sant Vicenc. Walking to the fortress is a unique and spectacular adventure, you can look forward to some of the most breathtaking views, while at the same time, learn about the rich history of the area.

Torre dels Enagistes is a great attraction in Manacor. The old fortress was built after the Catalan conquest of Mallorca, and is a splendid example of military architecture from this time. Inside the fortress, you will find the local history museum of Manacor, featuring various interesting exhibitions of collections of artifacts testifying to the rich history of Manacor.

Torre del Canyamel was built as a defensive construction for the people to seek safety in during times of attacks.