Soutomaior Castle
Imposing fortresses stand on beautiful hills in the province of Pontevedra and remind us of the grandeur of other eras. Their strategic location served as protection and defence against enemy attacks. Symbols of power in the Middle Ages, today the castles of As Rías Baixas are the perfect passport to embark on a journey into the past and discover first-hand the history of this destination and the families of the high nobility who lived within its walls.
The castle of Soutomaior is the pearl of the fortified heritage of As Rías Baixas. Witness of battles, intrigues, power struggles between noble families, family disputes and visits of personalities, throughout its history it has lived times of greatness and also of ruin. Today, this majestic site located at the end of the Vigo estuary, in the municipality of Soutomaior, shines in all its splendour and is destined to become an international tourist landmark.
And if the castle is monumental and extraordinary, no less so is the Garden of International Excellence of camellias, of great beauty and prestige, in which an enormously valuable collection of camellias, whose flowering occurs in the winter months, coexists with centenary trees. Several trails allow visitors to discover its botanical richness through the flower par excellence of As Rías Baixas; a leafy forest in which a chapel, a small stream, extensive vineyards and beautiful views accompany the walker.
Half 12th centurymedieval fortress, half 19th century neo-Gothic palace, this architectural ensemble, which is currently experiencing a new golden age, is made up of two towers joined by a habitable building and a parade ground, surrounded by a double wall.
The musealisation of the interior, with technologies to present its characteristics, related figures and importance in the territory in a pleasant and creative way, represents a qualitative leap in the attractiveness of an already imposing site. Entering the museum is the ideal way to discover its history (Click here to visit the museum).
Behind its walls lived characters such as Pedro Madruga, a key figure in 15th century Galicia, who some studies place as the real Christopher Columbus; or María Vinyals, writer and pioneer in the defence of women at a time - end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th - when they were condemned to a submissive role.
Hidden at the bottom of the estuary to avoid invasions by sea in the past, and located in a strategic enclave to control communications between Galicia and the north of Portugal, this fortress emerges, property of the Pontevedra Provincial Council, which harmonises historical heritage and scenic beauty. We invite you to visit it and delve into the history of the province.
More information here.
