Our next stop was to see the Castillo de los Templarios (Castle of the Knights Templar) in Ponferrada, a 50-minute drive from Castrillo de los Polvazares. The Knights Templar arrived in 1178 to protect the Camino de Santiago and the Pon Ferrada (iron bridge). They left in 1312 when the Order was dissolved.
The Count of Lemos took possession in the 15th century. He constructed the main entrance and the 5 towers, as well as an underground mine for accessing the water of the Sil River and the cave, Cueva la Mora. He also built the Torre del Homenaje (the keep) and the New Palace.
Entrance fee is €6. Plan on spending 90-120 minutes to tour the castle. There is paid parking on the street.
The Tau Cross used by the counts of Lemos as an emblem of their house of nobility. It's often mistaken for the Red Cross Pattee used by the Knights Templar.
The interior of the castle complex.
View of the New Palace where there are exhibits with the history of the castle.
Looking out from the complex you'll find the Iglesia de San Andres.
2021 09 07
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