El Castillo Museum and Gardens
Among the many places you will visit in Medellin, none quite compare to the El Castillo Museum and Gardens! The ‘castle’ and its grounds are the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Here is what you need to know about Medellin’s very own Disney-esque destination…
It’s cheap to visit
The entrance fee is only $5 or thereabouts, so it makes for an affordable excursion if you fancy exploring a different side to Medellin.
It’s not really a ‘castle’…?
While it’s referred to as a castle and looks like a castle, the building you see before you was actually once someone’s home. Think of it as a very grand manor with the shell of a castle!
It was built back in 1930 by HM Rodriguez who was inspired by castles in France. Just like a castle, however, the manor house is rich with history, but you can discover more about that when you visit!
It’s spectacularly grand
You’re not allowed to take photographs of the inside of the ‘castle’ but rest assured it is every bit as grand as any castle you would step into in Europe. The gothic style interior features dark wood finishes and is furnished with artworks and antiques from all over the world.
The gardens are beautiful
The castle is spectacular, but then so are the gardens here! There are several garden areas to enjoy, each with their own theme, such as the Japanese garden and contemporary garden, for example. On a bright and sunny day exploring these gardens is truly a pleasure and be sure to keep an eye out for all the butterflies and birds too!
Panoramic city views
Take the opportunity during your visit to soak up the panoramic views of Medellin and see the city from a unique new perspective.
Spot the iguanas!
On the edges of the property (overlooking the city) if you take your time and look closely, you might just be able to spot the odd iguana or two sunbathing in the trees or on the grass!
Don’t forget to visit the cafe
The freshly baked cakes and savoury snacks here are great and served by a couple of lovely ladies. You will more than likely be joined by our little red squirrel friend who seems to enjoy the snacks here just as much as we did!
Go shopping afterwards
Once you’re done here, why not take the 10 minute walk down to Santafé Mall? The multi-story building has a retractable glass top which allows for lots of fresh air in the evening when it opens and has hundreds of amazing shops, restaurants and independent vendors selling everything you could possibly need.
Until next time,
Lica xoxo
Pingback: Impressions Of Medellín - What We Thought Of The ‘City of Eternal Spring’ - Happy-Go-Lica