Bellver Castle
TIME : 2016/2/22 14:03:56
Bellver Castle
Few castles in Europe – and none in Spain -- can lay claim to the distinctive circular shape of Mallorca’s Bellver Castle. Bordered by four towers, the fortress is enclosed by a moat and sits atop a forest-covered hill. From there, it overlooks the island’s capital city of Palma, which sits under two miles away.
The 14th-century Gothic-style castle was originally constructed over the course of about a decade under the orders of King Juame II of Mallorca. Since then, it has served as a residence for the Kings of Mallorca, a military prison, a mint and now as home to the city’s history museum. Within its round confines, find the equally circular courtyard (which sits atop a dungeon and cistern), learn more about the island’s distant past and take in spectacular views of the landscape and sea beyond. Practical Info
The castle is open for visits every day, although it should be noted that it does close early, at 1 p.m., on Monday. Entrance is always free for children under the age of 14, and everyone can get into the castle for free on Sundays. To get there, take an uphill walk from Palma, opt for a hop-on, hop-off bus tour or drive, as parking space is ample.
