Seated on a hilltop, this great fortified complex includes a castle that has been dated to the tenth century, of which the parade ground and well survive today; the Don Sancho tower, a fifteenth-century keep; the Pazo dos Condes, a fifteenth-century Renaissance palace; the fourteenth-century Hospital de Peregrinos used by pilgrims on the Vía da Prata (Silver Way); and Santa María de Gracia, a fourteenth-century Romanesque church.

There are excellent views of the surrounding area from this spot high over the Monterrei valley, in particular the municipality of Verín and the Támega river. The almost Mediterranean climate of this area make it one of the most important winegrowing areas in Galicia, bringing colour and character to the landscape.