In the heart of Palma’s Old Town, amidst Gothic churches and picturesque squares, lies yet another architectural treasure: a medieval Islamic palace with a history stretching back a millennium.
Constructed in the 12th century, the structure survived fires and earthquakes, serving as a noble residence before undergoing a Gothic rebuild, and eventually reimagined in Baroque style. The historic landmark will officially begin a new chapter as Nobis Hotel Palma upon its debut in November.
The hotel, designed by Swedish architecture firm Wingårdhs, embodies a fusion of Scandinavian and Spanish styles. The studio collaborated closely with historic authorities to reinvigorate the landmark, while honoring its timeless history.
As a result, a number of original elements were retained and restored. An ancient patio fountain, for instance, has been transformed into a plunge pool for two. The reception area reveals a preserved wooden alfarje, or paneled ceiling, with decorative Arabic calligraphy known as naskh—an architectural accent that survived the building’s entire history.
Over in the cocktail lounge, original 30-foot-high ceilings and stone walls are adorned with a meticulously restored 15th-century red painting.
Each of the 37 guestrooms and suites offers a unique layout, furnished with custom bed frames, bespoke furniture, designer lighting, and one-of-a-kind artwork against a soothing palette of neutral tones. Throughout the rest of Nobis Hotel Palma—including the NOI restaurant helmed by chef Xema Álvarez, the rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and an intimate spa—a sense of timeless elegance marries Mallorca’s rich history with a distinctive contemporary touch.
