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Montjuïc Castle, Barcelona

 
Montjuïc Castle sits atop Montjuïc Hill and offers some of the finest views of Barcelona, from the setting of a centuries old fortress.  The Castle makes for an interesting stop.
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Montjuïc Castle dates to 1640.  Fifty years later new bastions and battlements were constructed, and the fortress became a castle. The castle as we visit it today reflects the extensive modifications carried out in the mid-to-late 18th century.   The castle has been captured by many different forces over the centuries and at times its cannons were pointed at the citizens of Barcelona, rather than out to sea.  It was frequently used as a place of captivity and torture, most recently in the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s.  In 1963, the castle was converted to a Military Armor Museum.  In 2007, the castle was transferred to the city of Barcelona.

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The main entrance to the castle is reached by crossing a bridge over an old moat.  The moats have been drained and converted into gardens.
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My wife and I enjoyed our exploration of the castle.  It's fairly easy to get around and I've always enjoyed exploring old structures.  The cooling sea breeze on a warm day is much appreciated.
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On the roof is a square watchtower, a reconstruction.  It offers views out to the sea and was a great warning post from which to spot an approaching enemy.  A signal fire would be lighted if suspicious ships were approaching.

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From the walls around the tower are panoramic views of the sea and harbor....

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From the walls on the opposite side of the castle are great views of the city itself, including some familiar landmarks....

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(Note the distant spires of La Sagrada Familia, center right)

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When we visited the Castle, there was a theme of "flower power" for lack of a better term.  For example, look at the barrel of this artillery gun....

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Even the parade ground had gigantic floral petals in it.  Not exactly sure of the reason....

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Montjuïc Castle was declared a “Cultural Asset of National Interest” in 1988.

If you visit:

The castle can be accessed by car, bus, or via the Montjuïc cable car - funicular combination that has its upper station near the castle entrance.  You could also bike or walk up (a challenge!).  Admission is 5 Euros, with reduced rates for young adults, seniors and large groups.

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We took a taxi to the Castle and after leisurely exploring it, enjoyed a most interesting walk down Montjuic Hill, into Barcelona.  There's lots to see along this journey, including the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games venue.

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Twitter: @DrFumblefinger

"We do not take a trip, a trip takes us".  John Steinbeck, from Travels with Charlie

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