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Museum · Fisterra, Galicia
Castelo de San Carlos e Museo da Pesca
Small 18th-century fortification on the edge of the porto de Fisterra, built in the reign of Carlos III against corsairs, which houses the Museu da Pesca, about the life of the fishermen of the Costa da Morte.
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 Castelo de San Carlos e Museo da Pesca
The castle of San Carlos stands by the sea, next to the port of Fisterra. It was built in the 18th century, during the reign of Charles III, as part of a line of fortresses to defend the Galician coast from attacks by English and French privateers, together with the castles of Príncipe, in Cee, and Cardeal, in Corcubión.
Work began in the mid-18th century but stopped after the foundations and a stretch of wall, and was only completed by order of Charles III. In 1809, during the war against Napoleon, the castle was taken by French troops.
Today the castle houses the Museu da Pesca, which tells the story of the fishermen of Fisterra and the Costa da Morte: the boats, the nets and fishing gear, the sale of fish at the lonxa, shipwrecks and the community's relationship with the sea.
The museum is small and the visit is short. From the castle you can see the port and the bay.
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
30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
On rainy days it's a good covered option; check the opening times before you go.
How to get there
It is on rua do Castelo, next to the port of Fisterra, a few minutes' walk from the centre of the village.
Tip
Combine the museum visit with the nearby port: the lonxa shows live what the museum describes.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castelo de San Carlos e Museo da Pesca
What is in the castle of San Carlos?
The Museu da Pesca, about the life of the fishermen of Fisterra and the Costa da Morte.
What was the castle used for?
To defend the coast from attacks by English and French privateers in the 18th century.
Where is the castle located?
Next to the port of Fisterra.