It is thought that the first Roman settlement was built at the spot where today we find the Castell de l’Almudaina (also known as Palacio de l’Almudaina), shortly after 123 B. C.

Later, when the island was under Moorish rule, an authentic citadel was built which served as a residence for the Vali (Moorish governor). From that period, the building has taken some of its current features. After the Catalan Reconquista (in December 1229) the building was modified, rebuilt and turned into a residence for the Mallorcan kings. With the disappearance of the Kingdom of Mallorca, the palace became a residence for viceroys and governors.

Nowadays it is used as the official residence of the King and Queen of Spain, for the occasional State reception (Japan’s Tenno, Russia’s Leonid Brezniew and American Presidents, Carter and Clinton were received here). It also serves as a National museum.

But a part of the building is occupied today by the Spanish Fuerzas Armadas for their Balearic headquarters. Don’t go to the wrong entrance if and when you want to visit the Museo de la Almudaina. You might get arrested, or even shot.

The photo was chosen from my archive. It was taken in Palma de Mallorca, Balares, Spain. The date: April 11th, 2008. The time was 13:11:57.