The Royal Palace was the former residence of the Counts of Barcelona, and it is where King Ferdando and Queen Isabella most likely received Columbus in 1493 after his voyage to America. Built in the 14th Century, the Gothic Salo del Tinell has huge arches supporting a wooden roof. The Spanish Inquisition took place in this vast throne hall. The Palau Reiall and other historic buildings in Placa Rei are open to visitors and form part of the City History Museum.
