Triacastela's name is probably associated with three nearby castros, or ancient hillforts: Triacastela, Lagares and San Adrián. The 12th-century Codex Calixtinus records a custom in which pilgrims collected limestone here and carried it to Castañeda, where it was burned to make lime for the construction of the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.

Leaving Triacastela, there are two routes towards Sarria. The shorter route passes through A Balsa, while the alternative via Samos adds about 7 km but passes its large Benedictine monastery.

What to see in Triacastela

Igrexa de Santiago

The Igrexa de Santiago retains much of its Romanesque plan and apse, although its façade and bell tower were rebuilt in 1790. Three castles carved on the façade refer to the traditional interpretation of Triacastela's name. The sacristy preserves a 12th-century silver processional cross.