The Tower of Hercules, A Coruña : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
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- 18 Jun, 2023
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The Tower of Hercules, A Coruña is a famous ancient Roman lighthouse situated on a rocky promontory in A Coruña, Galicia in northwestern Spain. It is the oldest still functioning lighthouse in the world, and it has been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This incredible architectural marvel is one of the most visited tourist attractions in all of Spain, and visitors will find plenty of interesting facts and information about the tower. This travel guide to the Tower of Hercules, A Coruña will provide insights into the historical and architectural significance of the tower, the local attractions in the area, and travel tips for visiting the area.
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About The Tower of Hercules, A Coruña
1. The Tower of Hercules is the only existing Roman Lighthouse that has been continuously operating for over 2,000 years.
2. It was crowned a National Monument of Spain in 1919 and then designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009.
3. The Tower of Hercules has been featured in works of literature and popular culture including the film Invasion of Asturias (1978).
4. The tower underwent a major restoration between 2000 and 2006 to help protect it from corrosion and maritime elements, and to return it to its original condition.
5. In 2015, The Tower of Hercules was chosen as the symbol of the XI Ibero-American Summit of Heads of State and Government held in the nearby city of A Coruña.
6. Every year, the historical monument hosts the event called ‘The Night of the Lighthouse’, during which the participants undertake exciting activities nearby, including a night hike and star-gazing.
7. The Tower of Hercules also serves as a habitat for several species of birds, including herring gulls, rock pipits, and peregrine falcons.
8. In 2018, an archaeological park was established near the lighthouse, which allowed visitors to explore the area more deeply via guided tours and educational activities.
History & Information About The Tower of Hercules, A Coruña
The Tower of Hercules is a nearly 2,000-year-old lighthouse located in the city of A Coruña in Galicia, Spain. It stands at the entrance to the city’s harbor and is the oldest active lighthouse in the world. It is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Tower of Hercules is believed to have been built by the Romans during the 1st century in honor of the Roman God, Hercules. It was used to warn ships of danger and as a beacon for ships in the harbor. While the exact date of its construction is uncertain, some historians believe it was built as early as the 1st century AD.
The lighthouse has changed many times over its long history. The original tower was around 35 meters tall, made of stone, and topped with a fire beacon. During the Middle Ages, it was rebuilt and enlarged using stone from the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and eventually reached a height of 61.5 meters. The tower was then completely reconstructed during the 18th century using the existing stones of the old tower. The new tower was designed by French architect Étienne Trouvelot and was approximately 70 meters high, with an octagonal shape, an observation deck at the top, and a rotating beacon.
The Tower of Hercules is one of the most iconic landmarks of A Coruña and a testament to the city’s long history. It has become a symbol of the region’s maritime tradition and is one of the most visited sites in the city. In 2009, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Travel Guide For Visiting The Tower of Hercules, A Coruña
The Tower of Hercules in A Coruña, Spain is an impressive ancient monument located in the city of A Coruña, and is currently the only functioning Roman lighthouse in the world. Constructed around the 2nd century BC by the Romans, this impressive tower is one of the most emblematic symbols of the city, as well as one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. Here’s a helpful guide for visiting the Tower of Hercules!
Getting There:
The Tower of Hercules is located in the city of A Coruña, which is a major port city located in the northwest of Spain. It is easily accessible by train, bus or car, as A Coruña has many intercity connections. Bus numbers 2 and 4 are the best options to get to the Tower from the city center.
Opening Times and Ticket Prices:
The Tower of Hercules is open every day from 10 am – 8 pm, except for December 24th, 25th and 31st when it closes early at 5 pm. The entrance is free, but visitors are asked to donate a small fee to help with the maintenance and upkeep of the Tower.
Tour Options:
There are a number of tour options that visitors can choose from if they want to get the most out of their visit to the Tower of Hercules. There is a guided tour which includes an audioguide, access to the top of the tower and an information booklet. Visitors can also opt to take a guided night tour, or even a combination tour that includes a visit to the nearby museum.
Things to Do:
Aside from visiting the Tower of Hercules itself, there are a number of activities that visitors can enjoy in the immediate vicinity. The nearby Tower Beach is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the lighthouse provides beautiful views of the city and the surrounding countryside. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby where visitors can enjoy a bite to eat or a cool drink.
The Tower of Hercules is one of the most iconic symbols of the region and a must-visit when in A Coruña. It is an impressive ancient monument that offers visitors a unique and historic experience. From its peaceful atmosphere to the incredible views of the city and countryside, the Tower of Hercules is definitely worth a visit!
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Tower of Hercules, A Coruña
Q1. Where is The Tower of Hercules located?
A1. The Tower of Hercules is located in A Coruña, in the northwest corner of Spain.
Q2. How old is The Tower of Hercules?
A2. The Tower of Hercules is believed to have been originally constructed sometime in the 2nd century CE. It was rebuilt in the 18th century, making it roughly 2000 years old.
Q3. What is The Tower of Hercules used for?
A3. The Tower of Hercules is a lighthouse and serves as a navigation aid for ships in the region.
Q4. What is the height of The Tower of Hercules?
A4. The Tower of Hercules is 56 metres high.