Castle of Villafranca del Bierzo

The Castle of Villafranca del Bierzo is a Renaissance residence with a square footprint and four round corner towers built in stone, rising across several levels. A central courtyard sits within its walls, organizing the interior space and creating the heart of the structure.

King Ferdinand the Catholic ordered this residence in 1486 as a stronghold for the Marquesado, with Don Pedro de Toledo and his wife María Osorio completing its construction. The building rose during a period when noble families were consolidating their power across the region.

This fortress served as a stop for pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela along the Way of St. James, a connection still visible in the local architecture and layout. The chapel adjacent to the castle reflects this pilgrimage heritage that continues to shape how locals see their community.

The castle is privately owned by the Condes de Peña Ramiro family and sits at Plaza de Prim 12, requiring advance permission to visit the interior. The exterior and towers are visible from outside, offering a good view of the structure even without interior access.

The estate includes vineyards that have been farmed since 1800 using integrated production methods and now produce wines from the local Villafranca region. This agricultural side links the castle directly to the rural economy and traditions of the area.