Magaluf Excursions: Bellver Castle

While it’s the notoriety of Magaluf and utopia of Majorca that hook tourists into packing their bags, Majorca’s history is what completely overshadows them.

One of such monuments in Majorca is the Bellver Castle also known as Castell de Bellver, which was built in the 14th Century by King James II of Aragon. The historically invaluable castle is circular in form and stands proud on a hill near Palma. Although it is now a very popular tourist destination, in the 18th and 19th Centuries it used to house prisoners of war. It was even used to imprison royals and intellectuals who went against the almighty King. Some historians believe over 50,000 people might have been executed or imprisoned in this castle within the King’s very 1st decade.

Today, the castle has its gory past long behind and serves as a valuable museum. For history-buffs it offers Palma’s history and various artifacts from the Talaiotic, Roman, Arab and Spanish periods. For tourists, who have little interest in history, the ancient castle is a beautiful tourist destination with lovely vistas. It has been impeccably maintained and creates a distinct sense of awe. Its circular form makes it unique amongst Spanish castles and it is a unique creation in Spanish architecture. To appreciate the full effect of its form, a guided walking tour is your best option. As you walk around an actual moat, followed by a climb onto the roof and then reach the majestic courtyard, you can admire the entire Castle. With all its contrasting styles out in full glory, this is the ideal place from which to admire and analyze the location. The platform will also offer you stunning sights of the city and its bay. No wonder the castle was named Bellver, which in Catalan meant 'lovely view.' A bit of an understatement if you ask me.