1 Function of the Palace
Standing directly opposite Sa Seu, in an equally prominent position that actually obscures the cathedral’s
main façade from all but close-up view, this ancient palace adds a lighter, more graceful note to Palma’s
assemblage of civic buildings. Today, the palace is used for legislative and military headquarters, royal apartments
and a museum.
2 Building Style
An amalgam of Gothic and Moorish styles, the palace has a unique charm. Square, medieval towers
have been topped with dainty Moorish-inspired crenellations. Refined windows and open, airy arcades
also tell of an abiding Islamic influence.
3 Central Courtyard
Known variously as the Patio de Armas, the Patio de Honor and the Patio del Castillo, this central courtyard also evokes a Moorish feel, with its elegantly looping arches and central stand of palm trees. A fountain incorporates an
Islamic lion from the 11th century.
4 Hall of Councils
The largest room on the ground floor takes its name, Salón de Consejos, from a meeting of ministers called
here in 1983 by Juan Carlos I. There are 15th- and 16th-century Flemish tapestries, coats-of-arms and furniture.
5 Officers’ Mess
The walls are graced with fine 17th-century Flemish genre paintings, some by a talented contemporary of
Rubens. Note the fine Mudéjar wooden ceilings, by Moorish artisans.
6 Terrace and Banys Àrabs
Step onto the terrace for panoramic views. Then, back inside, peer into the remains of the Arab Baths. By
means of mirrors, you can examine the three separate vaulted chambers below – one for hot, one for tepid and
one for cold water.
7 Queen’s Rooms
Taking the Royal Staircase to the upper floor, you encounter the Queen’s Rooms, which contain fine antiques, oriental carpets, tapestries and paintings.
8 King’s Rooms
Here, you will find richly coloured oriental carpets, huge 16th- and 17th-century Flemish tapestries, bronze
statuary, Neoclassical paintings and some spectacular Empire furniture with glittering ormolu fittings.
9 Gothic Hall
This remarkable room, noted for its huge pointed arches, is used for official receptions. Don’t miss the
fine 17th-century Flemish tapestry on the back wall, depicting the Siege of Carthage.
10 Chapel of St Anne
The chapel’s delicately coloured altarpiece, created in Barcelona in 1358, is a visual sonnet in sky blue and
gold.