Castle da Rocha Forte

Castle da Rocha Forte stands as a set of ruins in a valley near Santiago de Compostela, with remains of thick defensive walls and internal structures still visible. Archaeological work over the years has revealed the layout of the fortification and the various spaces where people lived and worked.

The fortress was built around 1240 under the direction of Archbishop Juan Arias as a center of church power in the region. It stood for nearly two centuries before being destroyed during the Irmandiño uprisings of the 15th century.

The castle symbolized the Archbishop of Santiago's power over the region and the pilgrimage routes that passed through it. It functioned as both a military stronghold and a residence for church officials.

The site is open to visitors but the ground is uneven and overgrown in places, so sturdy shoes and careful footing are important. Information boards at the location help explain the layout and different sections of what remains.

Unlike hilltop castles, this fortress was deliberately built in a valley to monitor the main route from Padrón to Santiago. This unusual placement made it an ideal location to control both pilgrimage traffic and commercial movement through the region.

Location: A Rocha Vella

Elevation above the sea: 185 m

Website: http://rochaforte.info/relatos/timeline

GPS coordinates: 42.86083,-8.57306

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:48