While not as internationally renowned, Marivent Palace holds a special place in the hearts of Spaniards. It is here that the Spanish royal family enjoys their summers.
In contrast, the British royal family chooses to spend their summer vacations at Balmoral Castle, nestled in the majestic Scottish Highlands.
Balmoral Castle, an imposing gray stone fortress adorned with towers, sprawls across 50,000 acres of land, including moors and forests—a perfect setting for traditional activities like hunting, shooting, and fishing.
Similarly, the Spanish royals find their summer refuge in Marivent, a palace that, despite its discreet reputation, exudes its own majesty, captivating those who know of it.
Marivent Palace: A coastal gem
Situated on the coast of Cala Major in Palma de Mallorca, Marivent Palace is a royal residence steeped in history and impressive architectural beauty.
Covering 355,000 square feet, it houses the main residence surrounded by over 96,900 square feet of lush gardens adorned with diverse botanical species, artistic fountains, and sculptures.
Its name, evoking the Spanish words for ‘sea’ and ‘wind,’ reflects its privileged location overlooking the Mediterranean.
Royal Traditions and Contemporary Relevance
The tradition of the Spanish royal family spending their summers in a palace has endured over the years, and Marivent Palace remains a summer destination for royalty.
This year, King Felipe VI, along with Queen Letizia and their daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía, is expected to enjoy their stay in this emblematic place.
The complex includes the main palace and three additional houses, rumored to have been built for each of the children of the former monarchs: King Felipe himself, and the Infantas Cristina and Elena.
A historical journey
The history of Marivent Palace dates back to the 19th century when the estate was known as ‘Sa Torre Cega.’
Constructed between 1923 and 1925 by architect Guillem Forteza Pinya for painter Juan de Saridakis, the property was later donated by Saridakis’s widow to be transformed into a museum.
However, in 1967, under the orders of dictator Francisco Franco, the Spanish government acquired the estate and converted it into the summer residence for the then-Princes Juan Carlos and Sofía, who would later become the kings and queen of Spain.
Since its designation, Marivent has hosted monarchs and their relatives during summers in Mallorca. It has also welcomed prominent figures, including Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle.
Today, Marivent Palace not only bears witness to Spain’s contemporary history but has also become a symbol of the country’s monarchy and tradition.
Its legacy continues to captivate both nationals and international visitors, drawn by its architecture and rich history.
The palace opens its doors to the public free of charge for much of the year, except when the royal family is in residence.
