Bellver Castle or Castillo de Bellver

Bellver Castle is 3 km from the center of Palma. The walk here from the city center will take you less than an hour. 

The castle was built here at the beginning of the 14th century, modeled on the ancient fortress of Herodium, located on the banks of the Jordan River. The castle was built by order of King Jaime II of Mallorca as a summer residence for his family, and later transformed into a defensive bastion. For a time, the building served as a prison for dissidents, until it finally became a historical museum in 1976. So now it's a perfect place to know more about the history of the island.

From the outside, the castle looks quite simple - massive walls made of light stone. But get inside and you will be pleasantly surprised by a spacious courtyard framed by arches, sculptures around the perimeter of the courtyard, and an original well installed in the center of the courtyard.

The castle has Gothic features, like most of the historical buildings in the city. In addition to architecture, the castle is also known for its observation deck. To see the best views in the city you need to overcome about 500 steps, and as a prize, you get a breathtaking view of the sea and the embankment, the city, and the surrounding area.

There is a park with green lawns, playgrounds, and cafes where you can have an inexpensive meal around the castle.

You can get to the castle on foot, by taxi or by bus №3.

The cost of visiting the castle, the museum, and the observation deck is 4 euros, for children under 12 years old the entrance is free.

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