The unknown medieval castle of Galicia hidden between valleys and mountains

Unlike most of Galicia 's ancient fortresses, which are located high in the mountains, Moeche Castle is a 14th-century medieval construction nestled among the mountains of the valley of the parish of San Xurxo. The building was erected to control these fertile lands. The high mountains surrounding it served as a kind of "surveillance barrier" in the absence of any other more defensive position.

Due to its unique characteristics and age, the castle is considered the most emblematic building in the municipality of the same name. Its structure is still preserved today, and even the parade ground can be visited.

A castle of great historical value

Within the history of Galicia, Moeche Castle holds great significance, as it played a pivotal role in the Irmandiños uprising of the 15th century. This was a series of clashes between the region's peasants and the medieval nobility of the time. As a result of this revolt, the fortress was destroyed. However, at the end of 1468, it was rebuilt with the help of the labor of those who participated in the clashes, as punishment.

These events were so symbolic for the municipality of Moeche that, to commemorate them, a pilgrimage known as the Irmandiño Festival has been held since 1980, featuring a dramatized reenactment of the attack. The celebration takes place on the third weekend of August and takes place at midnight under the light of torches.

What is Moeche Castle like?

With a polygonal layout, the fortress is defended on its western side by a ditch dug into the rock. The entrance is located towards the east, with an irregular layout designed to increase its defensive capacity and better control the surrounding area.

The entire castle has seven perfectly distributed areas for monitoring the area. You can visit the weapons room , the stables, the dining room, and the various rooms used by the castle's servants and nobles. One of the best-preserved parts is its keep , where the battlements that once crowned it can still be seen. You can also stroll through the parade ground, from which the four main rooms that make up the building open onto the ground.

Prices and schedules

Visitors over 16 years of age can visit the Galician fortress for a fee of €2.50. From July 1 to October 31, the opening hours are Wednesday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on weekends and holidays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.