Castillo de Bellver : a journey to the medieval heart of Mallorca

On the picturesque island of Mallorca, where the Mediterranean Sea meets blue skies and dazzling landscapes, a majestic architectural gem stands defiant against the passage of time: the Castillo de Bellver. With its unique design, rich history, and breathtaking panoramic views it offers, this castle is not just a monument, but a gateway to the fascinating history of Mallorca.

In this post, we will delve into the walls of this circular fortress, explore its secrets, and discover why the Castillo de Bellver is a must-visit for any traveler setting foot on the island. So keep reading if you want to find out everything about this majestic building in Mallorca.

What is Castillo de Bellver and why should you visit it?

Castillo de Bellver is a medieval fortress located in the city of Palma de Mallorca, atop a hill 112 meters above sea level. From this elevated position, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the port, the Sierra de Tramuntana, and the Pla de Mallorca.

What sets Castillo de Bellver apart from other European fortresses is its architectural design. It is one of the few castles in Europe with a circular layout, a feature that gives it a special uniqueness.

This is the history and origin of Castillo de Bellver 

Castillo de Bellver was built in the 14th century by order of King James II of Mallorca as a royal residence. Its name, "Bellver", comes from the Latin "bellum verum", meaning "beautiful view", a very fitting name given its elevated location.

Over the following centuries, the castle had various uses. It was used as a royal residence until the 15th century, then it became a prison during several periods, and finally transformed into a military barracks. In 1931, it was declared a historical-artistic monument and in 1976 it became the headquarters of the City History Museum.

Castillo de Bellver as a tourist attraction

Hoy en día, el Castillo de Bellver es uno de los principales reclamos turísticos de Mallorca. Atrae a visitantes de todo el mundo que vienen a admirar su arquitectura única, a aprender sobre su historia fascinante y a disfrutar de las impresionantes vistas panorámicas que ofrece.

Today, Castillo de Bellver is one of the main tourist attractions in Mallorca. It attracts visitors from all over the world who come to admire its unique architecture, learn about its fascinating history, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views it offers.

In addition to its architecture and views, the castle boasts several attractions worth exploring and we will detail them below:

• Firstly, there's the City History Museum, which houses a permanent collection about the history of Palma from Roman times to the present.
• Additionally, visitors can tour the different rooms of the castle, including the central courtyard, the Chapel of San Marcos, the throne room, and the towers.
• They can also explore the dungeons, which once housed famous prisoners such as Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, a prominent 18th-century Spanish politician and writer.
• Lastly, the castle is surrounded by a pine forestthat is ideal for walking and enjoying nature. This green space, known as the Bellver Forest, is also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor sports.

Visiting Castillo de Bellver in Mallorca

To visit Castillo de Bellver in Mallorca, you should take into account the following details:

Operating hours

The castle is open all year round, except on Mondays. From April to September, you can visit the castle from Tuesday to Saturday between 10:00 and 19:00. On Sundays and holidays, the hours are reduced and you can only visit from 10:00 to 15:00. From October to March, the hours may vary, so it is advisable to check the official page or contact the castle directly to ensure.

Prices

The general entrance to the castle costs 4 euros. There is a reduced rate of 2 euros for pensioners, retirees, young people between 14 and 18 years old, and people with young card or similar. Residents of Palma and travel agencies have a special rate of 2.50 euros. On Sundays, admission is free, as well as for children under 14 years old and school groups.

It is important to note that these schedules and prices may be modified by protocol events or shows organized by the Palma City Council. Therefore, it is always a good idea to verify this information before your visit.

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In conclusion, Castillo de Bellver is much more than a simple monument. It is a living testimony to the history of Mallorca, a unique architectural landmark, and a place from which you can appreciate the beauty of the island in all its splendor. It's no wonder that it's a must-visit stop for any visitor to this wonderful Mediterranean island.