Castro Caldelas

A medieval town crowned by a 14th-century castle overlooking the Sil river valley. Its old quarter preserves stone arcaded streets and the atmosphere of a small Galician nobility town.

In the remote interior of Ourense province, Castro Caldelas is far from the coastal Galicia that most tourists visit.

History

Castro Caldelas, perched high above the Sil River canyon in Galicia's Ribeira Sacra, boasts a formidable medieval castle that has defined its history. The town's origins are pre-Roman, evidenced by the 'castro' (hillfort) that gives it its name. However, its most significant period began in the Middle Ages, when it became a strategic defensive point for various noble families, particularly the Counts of Lemos.

The current castle, largely rebuilt in the 14th and 15th centuries, served as a powerful symbol of feudal authority and controlled access to the valuable lands of the Ribeira Sacra. Its imposing keep, walls, and defensive structures witnessed centuries of conflicts and power struggles. The town developed around the castle, with narrow, cobbled streets and traditional granite houses. Castro Caldelas remains a significant historical and cultural center, offering panoramic views of the canyons and a deep connection to Galicia's medieval past and the viticultural traditions of the Ribeira Sacra.

Highlights

• 14th-century castle of the Counts of Lemos
• Medieval arcaded streets
• Gateway to the Ribeira Sacra
• Chestnut forests and wine terraces

How to get there

From Ourense, Castro Caldelas is approximately a 1-hour drive east via the OU-536, a winding road offering scenic views of the Ribeira Sacra. Public transport is limited.

Explore nearby: Galicia guide · Ourense province · Castles of Ourense