The Castle of Pambre has had a lengthy association with St James Way dating back to the 15th century, when the King ordered the Way be guarded and Pilgrims given safe passage.
Despite its long history with the Way, many pilgrims are not aware of it or visit it. This is possibly because it it around 7 klms from the Camino path up a winding, almost dangerous road. We took a taxi who waited for us to drive us back down.
In the 15th century medieval uprisings took place across Europe, with the largest being in Galicia, the Irmandino Revolts. During 1467 to 1469, the population was rebelling against the nobility. Several Milita groups formed and successfully attacked and raised many buildings to the ground. The Castle of Pambre managed to resist the attacks and become known as the impenetrable fortress. This Castle is said to be the best example of Galicia’s medieval architecture. It was built around 1375 by Gonzalo Ozores de Ulloa.
Other buildings on the site are the horreo, which is a raised Galician granary and commonly seen across the Camino trail, and a 12th century chapel.
The Castle is located in the centre of Galicia and overlooks Palas de Rai, which made it an ideal spot to guard the St James Way.
The Castle has undergone some restoration. However, as they do not have the original plans, the restoration is limited to making it safe for visitors and preserving as much history as possible.
I was in awe of the workmanship, which is still evident. The individual stonemasons stamps can still be seen carved into the stone blocks.
During our visit the castle was guarded by a ‘fierce’ Mastif who looked like he might lick you to death before anything else. The caretaker explained that the dog had just spent 2 weeks visiting his girlfriend and was worn out. 😂. Some things are the same world over.
I remain in awe at the thought that I am treading the ground walked on my people across so many centuries. It sometimes feels quite surreal.