For half a century, this grand hillside castle was inhabited by a prominent Spanish aristocrat. Now the mock-gothic building and its lovely scenic grounds have been opened to the public as a museum.
On top of a hill in the affluent Poblado district, the grand El Castillo Museum offers some of the best views in town and a peaceful reprieve from city life. Once home to a prominent aristocrat, this faux château is a site of real cultural significance in the 20th-century history of Medellín.
Built in 1930, the castle was originally owned by a Spanish aristocrat by the name of Diego Echavarría Misas. After living on the premises for some 50 years, Misas had the property opened to the public as a museum. Tour this splendid castle’s different rooms to gain a special glimpse into the lives of its lavish previous occupants.
The nine rooms of the El Castillo Museum have been left much in the same condition as they were in when the castle was last inhabited. Inspect photos of the family Misas and admire the artwork in the house, sourced from as far away as France, Spain and Italy. Peruse the books in the well-appointed library.
Head out to one of El Castillo’s numerous balconies and you will be greeted with panoramic views of Medellín, dramatically framed by the mountains behind. Descend the steps that lead from the castle to a fountain at the heart of a well-manicured garden. This tranquil space is yours to enjoy, since Medellín’s pleasant year-round weather means there is no real high season for tourists to flock. You may, however, need to share the gardens with the squirrels and parrots that live in the trees.
El Castillo Museum is located in the Poblado area to the south of Medellín. Take the subway to the Poblado station and then catch a cab for the 10-minute ride to the castle. Stay in Poblado to explore its myriad book markets and cafés. This district is also a main hub for nightlife in town, so you will find no lack of restaurants, bars and hotels in the vicinity.
