Channels, cisterns and other premises

The castle had a complex hydraulic architecture to ensure a supply of water that was not dependent on outside sources. This was a key factor, particularly at times of war when it was not possible to leave the fortress. Water was needed for human and animal consumption and also in the event of a fire, which was one of the commonest ways of bringing castles down.

We have both direct and indirect evidence of the existence of other buildings such as horse stables, which were necessary for husbandry and war. Apparently, the stables were to one side of the bailey, between the keep and the gates of the castle.

In this area there must also have been the barracks , housing the soldiers stationed at the castle and the reinforcements in times of conflict. This area would include a kitchen and a canteen although soldiers of the time eating did not require much formality. Most likely, there would have been an oven there as well.

By Enmacosa.
By Cenlitrospormetrocadrado.
By Enmacosa.

At A Rocha we can still see a well several metres deep and a cistern, located against the southeast section of the wall, which features a complex and elegant architecture. Also visible are the remains of a network of channels, outside the wall used to discharge sewage and rainwater in order to preserve the inside the of castle healthy.

The barn

This is among the less known elements of the castle: it was used to store away the payments in kind by vassals and transit duties levied on their goods on their way to Santiago. At times of conflict it would be a good place to hide away some of the archbishop riches. It also fed those inside the castle and provided the necessary stock of supplies in times of conflict. It was therefore fundamental for the role it played for tax collection and survival.

There are few mentions of its existence and archeologically it is difficult to identify because of the simplicity of its architecture. The same is true of the horse stables, the barracks and the canteen.

Channels, cisterns and other premises

Supply of victuals in times of war

The barn

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