DESCRIPTION:
Palma, capital of Mallorca and the wider Balearic Islands of Spain, was founded by the Romans in 123 BC. Surving many subequent invasions by Vandal tribes and Byzantine, the city and island were claimed by King James I of Aragon in 1229 after three months of siege. Traces of Byzantine occupation can still be seen as mosaics in the oldest parts of the cathedral, La Seu.

Much of the city's modern infrastructure was commissioned by James II of Mallorca, including Bellver Castle (the oldest circle castle in Europe) overlooking the Royal Palace of Almudaina and the current design of the cathedral, which both lie next to Palma's extensive bay. It was this geographical feature which would encourage the cities prominence in Spain's naval trade.

Peasant uprising and frequent attacks by pirates reduced the city's prominence during the 16th and 17th centuries. However, Palma's former power as a naval port reemerged during the 18th century with the growth of the Spanish Empire in the Americas.

Napoleonic occupation of Eastern Spain caused many people from the mainland to flee to the island. With an increased population and French invasion of Northern Africa, attack from pirates was significantly reduced allowing a boost in the city's economy.

In addition to these landmarks, part of the maze of Arab alleys behind the cathedral is featured in this video of phtographs taken by me in July 2010.