Puebla de Sanabria Castle

The Puebla de Sanabria Castle is an imposing fortress located on a strategic rocky outcrop, protected by three rivers. This castle-palace was built in the last quarter of the 15th century by the fourth Count of Benavente, Don Rodrigo Alonso Pimentel, and his wife Doña María Pacheco. With a quadrangular plan and an impressive keep, popularly known as “El Macho”, the castle stands as a testament to the rich history of the region.

Architecture and Structure

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The fortress is built of granite ashlar and surrounded by a walled enclosure with wide towers and vaulted shooting chambers. The courtyard, located in the center of the complex, is a unique space that stands out for its regular design and its defensive capacity. The Keep, or “El Macho”, is one of the most prominent structures, offering panoramic views of the surroundings and serving as an information center on the history of the castle and the town.

Center of Fortifications

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Inside the castle is the Center of Fortifications, a space dedicated to the history of the castle and other fortresses in the province of Zamora. Here, visitors can enjoy information panels, audiovisuals and interactive games that explain in a fun way the evolution of these defensive constructions. The Keep also offers excellent panoramic views of the surroundings, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

Governor’s House and Cultural Center

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In the northern part of the walled enclosure is the Governor’s House, which houses the Visitor Center and the Municipal Tourism Office. This space has several exhibition rooms dedicated to the Route of the Pimentel, which extends from the green fields of Vinhais in Portugal to the plain of Villafáfila. It also provides information on the historical, ethnographic, landscape and faunal richness of Sanabria and the Sierra de la Culebra.

The east wing of the castle houses the Cultural Center, consisting of three rooms: the Auditorium, the Municipal Library and the Exhibition Hall. This cultural space is a meeting point for events and activities related to the local community and its heritage.

History and Significance

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Puebla de Sanabria Castle has a rich and complex history, marked by its construction in the 15th century and its role in various conflicts, including the War of Independence against France. Over the centuries, the castle has witnessed numerous historical events and served as a defensive bastion in the region.

In recognition of its historical and architectural value, on February 17, 2022, the castle was declared a Site of Cultural Interest, with the category of monument, by the Junta de Castilla y León.