The palace was built to host the court of James II of Majorca after Perpignan was designated the mainland capital of the kingdom in 1276.
The chapel's portal is a notable example of marble carving, utilizing local stone from the nearby Céret region.
The fortress was significantly reinforced by Vauban in the 17th century, adding bastions that altered the original medieval layout.
The palace grounds contain a private garden that provided agricultural produce and medicinal herbs for the royal household.
The throne room was designed to face the sea, symbolizing the maritime power of the Majorcan kingdom.
Archaeological excavations on site have uncovered remains of earlier residential structures dating back to the late 12th century.
The Palace of the Kings of Majorca is a 13th-century Gothic fortress-palace that served as the center of the short-lived Kingdom of Majorca. Located on the Puig del Rey hill, the structure features a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. The complex is organized around a central courtyard surrounded by two-story galleries and arcaded walkways. Key features include the marble-adorned Throne Room and the double-tiered chapel dedicated to Sainte-Croix and Sainte-Marie-Madeleine. The palace was heavily fortified with high walls and towers to protect the sovereign from regional threats. Visitors can access the ramparts, which provide views extending from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean coastline. The site currently hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts within its historic walls. Ownership and maintenance are managed by the Departmental Council of the Pyrénées-Orientales.
The upper balcony of the courtyard looking toward the marble-arched portal of the chapel.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven cobblestones and ascending steep ramps.
Allocate time to explore the ramparts separately from the interior royal apartments to fully appreciate the defensive design.
Bring a light jacket even in summer, as the thick stone walls keep the interior corridors quite cool.
Do not attempt to drive to the main entrance, as parking in the immediate vicinity of the hill is extremely limited and restricted to residents.
Open year-round, though specific interior chambers may occasionally close for temporary exhibitions or conservation work.
No flash photography is permitted inside the chapel or near specific sensitive artifacts.
