Castle of the Templars

Impressive medieval castle with towers, passageways and unique panoramic views. Ideal for photos, cultural walks and spectacular scenery.

The Castle of Ponferrada is one of the main tourist attractions not only of the city but also of the El Bierzo region. This impressive medieval fortress, inhabited by monks and Knights Templar between the 12th and 13th centuries, rises above the city of Ponferrada, offering spectacular views of the El Bierzo region. Its striking architecture, with robust walls, towers and a moat surrounding the fortress, attracts thousands of visitors every year.

The castle is the best-preserved of those built by the Templars in Spain, making it a site of great historical and cultural interest. Its strategic location at the confluence of the Sil and Boeza rivers made it a key defensive point during the Middle Ages. Today, visitors can walk along its walls, explore its rooms and stroll through its passageways, which still hold secrets of medieval history.

In addition to its architecture, exhibitions are held that detail the history of the fortress, the Order of the Temple and the role it played on the Way of St James. It is a unique opportunity to delve into the medieval and Templar past of the region, with objects, weapons and historical pieces that enrich the visit.

For photography enthusiasts, the Castle of Ponferrada is a perfect place to capture panoramic views of both the castle itself and the surrounding landscapes. Its combination of history, architecture and natural surroundings makes it a fascinating tourist destination. Moreover, it is located in the very centre of Ponferrada, allowing visitors to also enjoy the old town, with its cobbled streets, squares and other historic monuments.

In short, the Castle of Ponferrada is a must-see stop for those wishing to discover Spain’s medieval history and enjoy impressive views in a unique setting.

INFORMATION

📍 Location & Contact

🗣️ Languages in which the public is served: Mainly in Spanish, and guided tours can also be conducted in English. If a tour in another language is needed, it is recommended to contact the company offering the service in advance.

👥 Capacity: The maximum capacity is not fixed at a constant number and may vary.

Accessibility: Yes

General admission: €6 / Reduced admission (*): €4 / Free admission (**):€0

(*) Reduced admission – €4
Includes: youth, students, unemployed, pensioners, pilgrims with updated credential, cultural or charitable groups (+15 people), and groups of students from outside the El Bierzo region (+13 years).

(**) Free admission – €0
Includes: children under 14, people with disabilities and essential companion, schoolchildren and students from the El Bierzo region, accredited teaching staff, official guides and group companions, volunteers or social groups from Ponferrada, journalists, institutional guests, collaborating cultural or academic entities, citizens of Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, and all visitors on Wednesdays, as well as Sundays for Ponferrada Citizen Card holders, and special dates (23/04, 12/10, 06/12, and one day during European Mobility Week).

(*) (**) Accreditation must be presented at the ticket office with a valid and up-to-date official document.

PHOTOGRAPHIC GALLERY OF

Castle of the Templars

COMPLETE YOUR VISIT TO Castle of the Templars

Piezas museísticas

Facsimile manuscript of the Beatus of Liébana


Manuscript | 10th century (facsimile)

Codex Biblicus Legionensis, Facsimile


Manuscript | 10th century

Bible of Federico da Montefeltro, Facsimile.


Manuscript | 15th century

The Beatus Manuscripts, Facsimile.


Manuscript | 15th century

The Great Hours of Anne of Brittany. Facsimile


Manuscript | 15th century

The Très Riches Heures of the Duke of Berry. Facsimile


Manuscript | 15th century

Book of the Knights of the Order of Santiago of Burgos Cathedral. Facsimile.


Manuscript | Middle Ages

Codex Calixtinus. Facsimile.


Manuscript | 12th century

Botanical Encyclopedia of Emperor Wenceslas. Facsimile.


Manuscript | Middle Ages

Don Quixote. Original, 18th century.


Original copy | 18th century

The Spiritual Canticle by Saint John of the Cross, illustrated by Eduardo Chillida.


Original copy | Middle Ages

Book of Kells (AD 800). Facsimile of the original preserved in the Trinity Library in Dublin.


Manuscript | AD 800

Gospel Book of Henry León (12th century)


Manuscript | 12th Century

Beatus of Burgo de Osma (11th century)


Manuscript | 11th Century

Codex Calixtinus (12th century)


Manuscript | 12th Century

Lapidary of Alfonso X the Wise (13th century)


Manuscript | 13th Century

The Très Riches Heures of the Duke of Berry (15th century)


Manuscript | 15th Century

Bible of Federico da Montefeltro (15th century)


Manuscript | 15th Century

Anatomical Studies by Leonardo da Vinci (16th century)


Manuscript | 16th Century

Dioscorides of Doctor Laguna (16th century)


Manuscript | 16th Century

Academy Quixote – Ibarra Quixote (18th century)


Manuscript | 18th Century

French Route Locations

Ponferrada


Ponferrada Capital of El Bierzo and gateway to great stories

Villafranca del Bierzo


Villafranca del Bierzo: a town to explore at leisure

Mapa camino

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