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Fortress · Ferrol, Galicia
Castelo de San Felipe
16th-century fortress, rebuilt in the 18th century, at the mouth of the ria of Ferrol, which together with the castillo da Palma on the opposite shore defended the harbor entrance; in the past a chain closed the ria between the two sides.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Castelo de San Felipe
The castillo de San Felipe stands on the north bank of the mouth of the ria of Ferrol, about 7 km from the center, at the narrowest part of the harbor entrance. It was built in the 16th century, in the reign of Philip II, and rebuilt and expanded in the 18th century, when Ferrol became the major naval base of northern Spain.
The fortress defended the port together with the castillo da Palma in Mugardos, on the other side of the ria, and with the castillo de San Martín in Ares, of which only a few ruins remain. Between castillo de San Martín and castillo de San Felipe a thick chain stretched across the sea to prevent enemy ships from entering.
The castle has bastions, cannon batteries facing the water, and stone walls. The batteries are at sea level to fire on ships at the narrowest point of the channel.
From the castle you can see the ria, the castillo da Palma on the opposite shore, and the ships entering and leaving the port.
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
From 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
By day, with clear weather, for the view of the ria. Hours change depending on the season; check before you go.
How to get there
It is about 7 km from Ferrol center, on the north bank of the ria mouth, with parking next to the castle. There are urban buses with limited schedules.
Tip
Descend to the batteries at sea level: from there you can understand how the castle closed the passage to ships.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castelo de San Felipe
What was the Castle of San Felipe used for?
To defend the entrance to the ria and the port of Ferrol, together with the castelo da Palma on the opposite shore.
Is it true that a chain closed the ria?
Yes, a heavy chain stretched across the sea between the castelo de San Martín and the castelo de San Felipe to bar enemy ships.
Where is the castle located?
About 7 km from the center of Ferrol, on the north bank at the mouth of the ria.