The Palais des Rois de Majorque, Perpignan's golden age
Located in the heart of Perpignan, this superb medieval palace was for almost a century (1276-1344) the center of the short-lived kingdom of Majorca. It was James I, King of Aragon, who split his kingdom in two, leaving his younger son, James II, the small kingdom of Majorca, comprising the Balearic Islands, the counties of Roussillon and Cerdagne and the seigneury of Montpellier. Wishing to have a home in his mainland capital, which had become the economic, political and cultural center of the Mediterranean, Jacques II built a sumptuous palace overlooking the Roussillon plain.
This Gothic-style palace, with its central courtyard, arcades, chapels and beautiful rooms filled with magnificent tapestries, reflected the splendor of the time. It hosted banquets, royal councils and parliaments. From the 16th century onwards, the palace was walled in by French and Spanish engineers to transform it into a citadel. Since 1958, the palace has been the property of the Département, which is responsible for its conservation and enhancement.
A mecca for the musical and cultural scene
For many years, this mythical venue has been used to host numerous festive and cultural events organized by the Département. Last summer saw the inauguration of a new festival, "la Festa de Majorque", bringing together a number of local artists and offering the public a varied and original musical experience.
Last October, the annual welcome party for new arrivals became "Valeurs en Fête" day, bringing together the whole population for a convivial gathering dedicated to associations and highlighting the values of solidarity, citizenship and commitment. The event featured a range of activities and workshops, traditional dances and music, demonstrations...
Illuminated gardens, a new and enchanting digital show
A completely new show, "Les jardins enluminés", involves evocative animations projected onto the walls of the former stables (180 m2). This majestic, immersive show plunges visitors into the heart of the gardens in medieval times, bringing them face to face with the characters and animals of the period.
Grenat de Perpignan" exhibition: the art and history of a Catalan jewel
The "Grenat de Perpignan" exhibition, produced in partnership with the Institut du Grenat de Perpignan, traces the history of this emblematic Catalan jewel in the blood and gold colors that symbolize our region. In the heart of the Palais des Rois de Majorque, exceptional pieces of goldsmith's and silversmith's jewelry, both ancient and modern, are on display, often for the first time.
