The Templar Castle is the great set-piece of Ponferrada and one of the largest medieval castles in northern Spain. Built in the 12th century to protect pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago, it was held by the Knights Templar from 1178 until their order was dissolved in 1312. The fortress that you see today is an accretion of additions made over five centuries, with a Templar nucleus enveloped by 15th-century walls, watchtowers and a fine palace courtyard.
Inside, the Biblioteca Templaria displays facsimiles of medieval manuscripts including a beautifully illuminated Beatus from the nearby monastery of San Pedro de Montes. The walk around the battlements offers wide views over the Sil valley, the new town, and back toward the surrounding mountains. Open daily except Mondays; allow at least an hour.