castillo templario de ponferrada

This castle is not only a gem, it is being restored and will make you jump back in history and share the experience the Templars must have lived.A must!

this castle is another great reminder of why you walk the Camino. It's in the mist of a large city below the hills after climbing to the highest point in Spain on the Camino Francis. I am always a little disappointed when we dropped into the bigger cities on the Camino after walking thought the small towns and villages. This was a welcomed site and was like stepping back in time. We didn't get to tour the inside but the outside of the castle is impressive. We had to catch a bus and jump a head on the Camino due to our limited available time but it was worth the stop so if you are walking factor in some time to stop here.

We were walking the Camino de Santiago and landed in Ponferrada, after seeing the amazing castle decided to stay an extra night - well worth if, got to be one on the top Castles in Spain. We got the audio guides, which were very informative for a mere 3 euros. Though information was in English. Would certainly recommend.

This Templar castle looks truly amazing when you approach the entrance guarded by two turrets. Whole structure of walls is magnificent. However interior is not as much stunning. There's a new building in the center that does not fit perfectly with the old part (to use elegant words). Some parts of the castle and walls were closed to visitors. Exhibition in the new buidling was quite interesting. Also take a look at the old cellar converted into concert hall. Entrance fee is 6 euros.

The artifacts could have be more substantial. The information that they did have was quite good. The exhibition of old books was marvelous but the building itself is rather jarring and does not blend well with the castle.

It was very close to our hotel, the information with the exhibits were in Spanish with English translations which was great, entry into the castle was by cash payment only, credit cards not accepted.

Great castle with lots of rooms and information to explore. Fantastic views and photo opportunities. Be sure to walk through to the rooms that contain copies of ancient manuscripts as they are beautiful. Favourite photo was taken out front of the castle, from a little to the right side (if facing the castle), with the city showing through the arch created by the entry bridge.

The castle gives you an idea how it was living a that time, even though there is not much besides the walls, there is a expositon about books from that era an is awesome. Wednesday the entrance is free o 6€ any other day.

You get great views of the castle from outside, but on the inside... well, it is a mix of too much and too little. I felt they had over-restored the building itself, and there was a disappointing lack of information about the oldest part of the castle. There is a nice exhibition of facsimile medieval manuscripts, but there is something missing here. The modern additions are all eye-sores and it would not have been difficult to put some flowers, shade and seating in the central courtyard to make it more attractive. As with so many attractions I felt they were not thinking about the experience of the visitor. Hrrumph!

Really takes you back in history and just so complete - if you don`t know too much about the Moors being driven out of Spain then this will make it come to life

We loved the cleaness of it all and the mint condition it has bearing in mind it was built in the XIIth century. Noticeable was the erudit explanation of the person in charge of the medieval library concerning the priceless books nestled there. All in all, an interesting castle to relive the atmosphere of the Templars who dwelt in the premises a long time ago.

This is one of the reasons I came thru Ponferrada was to see this templar castle. It was more fantastic than I can even describe. It's just hard to believe it's been standing from before the 12 century when the Knights Templars took if over to help protect the pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostella. It houses the Templar Library . Very picturesque. A must see if in Ponferrada.

I was disappointed with the Castillo. I thought that there would be much more to see, but a lot of the areas were roped off and access was denied.

Well laid out tour, and extremely interesting. Good value for money at 6 euros. Good facilities within the grounds

While here, looking out over the city from the ramparts, I half expected to see Templar knights riding up to the castle entrance on horseback. Beautifully restored. Very informative displays. Good maps and audio guide. Friendly museum staff - very helpful.