Castillo de Ribadavia, Medieval castle in Ribadavia, Spain
Castillo de Ribadavia is a stone fortress that rises above the Avia River with thick defensive walls, multiple towers, and a notable entrance gate bearing the Sarmiento family shield. The structure stands in partial ruins, but the remaining walls and towers provide an overview of the former fortification and allow views across the surrounding wine region.
Construction began in the 14th century after King Henry II granted the lordship of Ribadavia to Pedro Ruiz Sarmiento in 1375. This royal grant marked the beginning of the fortification as an important administrative seat for the Sarmiento family in the region.
The International Theater Festival takes place here every July and is one of Galicia's main theatrical events. It brings artists and audiences together to experience the location's heritage through contemporary performances within the fortress walls.
The fortress is easy to locate from its visible walls and towers above the town center, making orientation straightforward. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear as the ground is uneven and parts of the structure remain in ruins.
The site previously housed the pre-Romanesque chapel of San Xes de Francelos until it was relocated to the Francelos parish in the 15th century. This early religious structure indicates that the fortress was built on a sacred location with a long history of worship.
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