Castell de Capdepera

The Castle of Capdepera stands as a formidable testament to the island of Majorca’s rich history, nestled in the municipality of Capdepera. With its origins dating back to Roman times before the site was expanded by the Moors, this massive fortress bears the legacy of several civilizations.

Initially constructed in 1310, the current structure was erected atop the remnants of a Muslim village from the 14th century. The castle played a pivotal role in the medieval politics of the Balearic Islands; it is famously known for being the stage of King James I of Aragon’s cunning deceit which led to the surrender of Menorca in the 1230s. By instructing his men to ignite numerous bonfires visible from Menorca, the Menorcan Muslims were misled into believing a vast army was poised to invade, thus coercing them into signing the Treaty of Capdepera. This move allowed them to live on under submission to the Crown of Aragon.

The fortress was strategically located, offering a commanding view of surrounding lands and seas, which was crucial for both commerce and defense throughout its history. King James II solidified the castle’s importance by ordering the enclosure constructed around the watchtower, now called Miquel Nunis, in 1300. Military troops occupied the castle until 1854, after which it entered a period of private ownership until it was eventually donated to the Capdepera Town

Today, it remains a prominent historical site, welcoming history enthusiasts and visitors year-round to explore its timeless walls and gaze upon the landscapes that bore witness to centuries of strategic and cultural evolution.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_of_Capdepera

Photo: Glen Bowman