The Ribadavia Castle, also known as the Castle of the Counts of Sarmiento, stands on a hill overlooking the Avia River in the heart of the medieval town of Ribadavia. Built in the second half of the 15th century, it served as the residence of the powerful Sarmiento family, counts of Ribadavia. Construction began under the direction of D. Pedro Ruiz Sarmiento, who was granted the lordship of Ribadavia in 1375 by King Henry II of Castile. The castle’s construction was interrupted by various conflicts, including the siege of the town by the Duke of Lancaster in 1385. Despite these setbacks, the fortress was completed in the following century. In the 17th century, the Counts of Ribadavia abandoned the castle and moved to the Counts’ Palace, located in the town’s main square. Today, the castle stands as an important historical and cultural monument, hosting events such as the Ribadavia International Theatre Showcase.
42º 17′ 13″ N – 8º 08′ 38″ W
Parish: San Domingos de Ribadavia.
Municipality: Ribadavia.
County: Ribeiro.
