Council Initiates Expropriation of Alaró Castle – What It Means for Mallorca

Council to take over Alaró Castle

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On 8 October 2025 the Consell de Mallorca officially initiated an expropriation procedure for Alaró Castle. Those who were at the parking lot next to the old finca early yesterday felt the tense mood: mountain air, a few clouds over the Serra de Tramuntana, and hikers still holding their coffee in a travel mug. The issue has been moving people for years.

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Why now?

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The reason is a new law for so-called strategic development projects. In short: procedures should go faster, and the Consell sees in this the possibility to secure the ruin, rehabilitate it, and keep it publicly accessible on a permanent basis. The goal is evidently clear: preservation rather than decay — but the steps to get there are not without questions.

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What is planned — and what is not

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The authority speaks of careful restoration, better access and information points for visitors. The plan includes paths, seating areas and perhaps a small information center – not a huge parking garage or a massive complex, say the officials. Still: residents and hiking clubs want precise plans. Many also ask who bears the ongoing costs and how motorized traffic will be limited.

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Citizens, owners and legal issues

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The property is currently privately owned. With the expropriation, the Consell wants to take it over and compensate. Lawyers warn: that may take months, perhaps years, if the owner sues. There will be negotiations over compensation — and possibly court dates in the end. Until then the castle rock remains a magnet for day-trippers.

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Voices from the town

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At Alaró's village square I spoke with a café owner: We want the castle to stay — but please without tourist crowds that clog the bar at seven in the morning. A member of a local association that takes care of hiking trails hopes for better signage and fewer cars on narrow mountain roads. Environmental groups call for archaeological oversight in all works.

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The next steps

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The Consell announced that initial security measures could begin as early as this winter. At the same time a public participation process should follow — dates will be announced soon. Those who want to have a say should keep an eye on the Consell's announcements or inquire at the municipal administration.

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Personal note: The Alaró Castle is not a monument for photo posting alone. For many here it is a piece of everyday history — with authenticity, corners and cracks. The challenge will be to preserve this character while securing the ruin for the coming decades.