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Castle · Ponferrada, Castela e Leão
Castillo de los Templarios
Fortress from the 12th to 15th centuries at the confluence of the Sil and Boeza rivers, linked to the Order of the Temple, with walls, towers, courtyards and a library of reproductions of old books.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Castillo de los Templarios
The castle of Ponferrada sits on a hill overlooking the meeting of the Sil and Boeza rivers, on a site that was probably a Celtic castro and a Roman outpost. Around 1178, King Ferdinand II of León allowed the Order of the Temple to settle in the town, and the Templars built the first fortification. After the order was suppressed in the early 14th century, the castle passed to nobles such as the Counts of Lemos, who expanded it until the 15th century, and later to the Catholic Monarchs.
The complex covers more than 8,000 square meters. The entrance is via a bridge over the old moat and a gate between two towers. Inside there is an older Templar enclosure, with walls and towers, and later constructions including the palace, the keep towers and the courtyards. From the battlements you can see the Sil valley, the old town and the mountains of Bierzo.
Inside the castle is the Templum Libri, an exhibition of reproductions of manuscripts and old books, from medieval bibles to codices of various periods. There are also rooms about the history of the Templars and the castle.
On the first full moon of July, generally, the Templar Night fills the castle and the streets with costumes, parades and medieval reenactments.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1.5 to 2 hours.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, with low light on the walls. Check opening days and hours before you go.
How to get there
It is in the old town, above the Sil, about a 20-minute walk from the train station and bus station.
Tip
For a photo of the whole castle, go down to the bridge over the Sil or to the riverbank outside the walls.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castillo de los Templarios
Was the castle of Ponferrada built by the Templars?
The first fortification was Templar, from the late 12th century. After the order was suppressed, nobles expanded the castle up to the 15th century.
What is the Templum Libri?
An exhibition of reproductions of manuscripts and old books, inside the castle.
When is the Templar Night?
In July, usually on the month's first full moon, with costumes and medieval reenactments. Confirm the date each year.