Bellver Castle
Illes Balears
Bellver Castle, located on a hill 3 km west of Palma de Mallorca, is one of Europe's few circular castles and a notable example of Gothic architecture. Built between 1300 and 1311 under King James II of Majorca, it uniquely combines the functions of a royal residence and a defensive fortress. The castle's circular design includes a central courtyard with a well, surrounded by a two-story palace with gothic arches, and three round towers plus a donjon. Its construction used local stone, leading to some structural cracks over time. Historically, it served as the residence for the Kings of Majorca and later as a military prison from the 14th to the 20th century, holding notable prisoners including political figures and royalty. The castle resisted several sieges and assaults, including during the 14th and 16th centuries. Today, it houses Palma's History Museum and is a major cultural attraction, offering panoramic views of the city, port, and surrounding landscapes. Its architectural uniqueness and rich history make it a must-visit site on Mallorca.
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Tip: Visit Bellver Castle in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for photography. Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website for any temporary closures or renovation notices, such as the scheduled bridge repairs in early 2026. Guided tours and audio guides enhance the visitor experience by providing detailed historical context.
Interesting facts
- •Bellver Castle is one of the few circular castles in Europe and the oldest of its kind.
- •Its name derives from the old Catalan term 'bell veer', meaning 'beautiful view', reflecting its panoramic vantage point.
- •The castle was built using stone quarried from a cave beneath its hill, which has caused structural cracks over time.
- •Notable prisoners included Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, who documented the castle and commissioned its original blueprints.
- •The castle resisted two medieval sieges successfully and fell only once during a 16th-century revolt.
- •Declared a historic-artistic monument in 1931, it is a protected cultural heritage site today.
History
Constructed from 1300 to 1311 by architect Pere Salvà and other master masons, Bellver Castle was commissioned by King James II of Majorca as a royal residence.
Its circular design was inspired by earlier structures like the Herodion palace.
Over centuries, it transitioned from royal residence to military fortress and prison, enduring sieges in 1343 and 1391 and falling once in 1521 during the Revolt of the Brotherhoods.
From the late 14th century onwards, it functioned as a prison for political and royal detainees, including during the War of Spanish Succession and the Spanish Independence War.
In the 20th century, it became a cultural monument and museum under city administration.
Place Guide
Central Courtyard14th century
A rare circular inner yard with a well in the center indicating a cistern below. Surrounded by a two-story palace with gothic semi-circular arches facing the courtyard, it exemplifies the castle's unique architectural design.
Donjon (Main Tower)14th century
The principal tower connected to the castle by a high bridge over the moat, serving as a key defensive and residential structure within the castle complex.
Three Round Towers14th century
Attached to the circular main structure, these towers provided defensive vantage points and complemented the castle's distinctive round floor plan.
Moat and Barbican14th century
Surrounding the castle and donjon, the moat and barbican were defensive features, though battlements were removed following artillery advancements.
Museum of the History of Palma20th century
Currently housed within Bellver Castle, the museum showcases the city's history, enriching the visitor experience with cultural and historical exhibits.
Contact
Phone: 971 73 50 65
