The Tower of Hercules is a symbol of A Coruña and Galicia, with more than two thousand years of history, and is one of the oldest lighthouses in the world still in operation. Located on a rocky promontory overlooking the Cantabrian Sea, it not only guides sailors but also serves as a melting pot of history, culture, and mythology. Linked to the legend of Hercules, who founded the city of A Coruña, the tower has been restored over the centuries, becoming an emblem of the city and a cultural reference for Galicia. Surrounding it are the Sculptural Park and spectacular views of the Galician coast, making it a unique place for tourists and pilgrims starting their journey on the English Way from A Coruña.
Tower of Hercules
Origin and Evolution: From farum Brigantium to UNESCO World Heritage
The Tower of Hercules was built by the Romans in the 1st century AD, under the name farum Brigantium. At that time, the Romans established a network of lighthouses along the coasts of the Empire, and the Tower of Hercules was part of this strategy to guide sailors through the turbulent Atlantic Ocean. The tower’s strategic location, on a cliff overlooking the sea, allowed sailors to see it from a great distance, helping them navigate and avoid the rocky obstacles that characterize the Galician coast.
Over the centuries, the tower has undergone several interventions. In the early 18th century, a neoclassical restoration was carried out under the direction of architect Felipe de Castro, giving it the appearance it has today. This restoration solidified the tower as an iconic monument, providing it with greater stability and a design more in line with the architectural ideals of the time.
In 2009, the Tower of Hercules was declared UNESCO World Heritage, a recognition of its importance not only as an architectural structure but also as a cultural symbol of the city and region. This acknowledgment highlighted the tower’s historical significance, which has endured through the centuries thanks to various restorations and the maintenance it has received to continue fulfilling its original function as a lighthouse.
Panoramic view from Monte de San Pedro, with the Tower of Hercules in the background
The Surroundings: Sculptural Park and Panoramic Views
The Tower of Hercules is not only remarkable for its history and architecture but also for its natural surroundings. Around it lies the Sculptural Park, a green space that houses a series of contemporary works of art, created by some of Galicia’s most renowned artists. Among them, the works of Francisco Leiro and Manolo Paz stand out, seamlessly integrating with the landscape and creating a dialogue between nature, art, and history.
The park is an ideal place to walk, exercise, or simply enjoy a day outdoors, while gazing at the Cantabrian Sea and feeling the sea breeze. From the Tower of Hercules, visitors can enjoy panoramic views that stretch across the city of A Coruña, its port, and the ocean. The majesty of this landscape has attracted visitors from all over the world, who marvel at the beauty of the surroundings and the opportunity to connect with nature in such a significant place.
Moreover, the views from the top of the tower are even more stunning. After climbing its 234 steps, visitors can see how the horizon stretches out to the sea, with the city at their feet. This panorama is not only a visual delight but also a reminder of A Coruña’s maritime history and the importance of the Tower of Hercules as a lighthouse, both for sailors and for pilgrims starting their journey.
The seafront of A Coruña, with several kilometers leading to the Tower of Hercules
Myths and Legends: Hercules, Geryon, and the Foundation of the City
The Tower of Hercules is surrounded by legends that have shaped A Coruña’s cultural identity. According to mythology, Hercules, the famous hero of Greek mythology, was the one who founded the city after defeating the monstrous Geryon, a being with three bodies and three heads. The battle between Hercules and Geryon is one of the best-known legends associated with the Tower of Hercules, symbolizing the fight against dark forces and the hero’s triumph. In fact, A Coruña’s municipal coat of arms depicts this scene, with the skull appearing beneath the tower on the shield.
Another popular legend links the tower to the figure of Breogán, the mythical Celtic king of Galicia. According to tradition, Breogán was the founder of the city of Brigantium, and his connection to the Tower of Hercules strengthens the region’s ties to its Celtic roots. This mythology is not only part of the Galician collective imagination but also reinforces A Coruña’s cultural identity as a place steeped in history and tradition.
Climbing the Tower of Hercules
Practical Tips for Pilgrims
The Tower of Hercules is not only a tourist destination but also an important place for pilgrims starting the English Way from A Coruña (or the Celtic Way in Spain). If you plan to visit the tower, here are some practical tips to make the most of your experience:
- Hours and Fees: The Tower of Hercules has specific opening hours, which may vary depending on the season. There is also an entrance fee that helps fund the maintenance and preservation of the monument.
- Accessibility: Access to the tower is easy, but it’s important to note that it is located in an area away from the city center, so some people may prefer to take public transportation or a taxi.
The Tower of Hercules is much more than a simple stone structure; it is an emblem of A Coruña that has endured for more than two thousand years, combining history, art, and legend. With its designation as a World Heritage site and its connection to the English Way, it remains a cultural and tourist reference for Galicia. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, panoramic ocean views, or the mythology surrounding this monument, the Tower of Hercules invites you to embark on a unique journey, full of meaning and beauty.
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