Bellver Castle
Bellver Castle
Bellver Castle (Calle Camilo Jose Cela 17, Palma, Mallorca) – located just outside of the city of Palma, stands a round hilltop castle built in 1309 by King James II of Mallorca. Its round shape is unique amongst Spanish castles. Used as a temporary residence by King Juan I of Aragon fleeing with his court from the plague that was ravaging mainland Spain (1395), it has also been a refuge for the nobles and merchantmen who were escaping from the city (1521) during a revolt.
In the XVI century the battlements were removed, the south tower was renovated and a moat was constructed. It’s checkered history continued when it was pressed into service as a political prison during the War of the Spanish Succession and then in 1717 it became a military prison with its own garrison. Today it houses Palma’s Municipal Museum and you can also visit the San Marcos Chapel, Sala de Jovellanos, Throne Room, kitchen and the Despuig Collection of Classical Sculpture.
Admission: Adults (€4), Students & Seniors (€2). Children under14: free. Hours: open Tuesdays to Sundays at the following times: 10 am – 5 pm (November to February), 10 am – 6 pm (March, April, September and October), 10 am – 7 pm (May to August).
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