Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
the United States
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Australia
Fiji
Lighthouse · A Coruña, Galicia
Torre de Hércules
Roman lighthouse from the late 1st and early 2nd centuries, 55 meters tall, with an 18th-century neoclassical refurbishment; the only Roman lighthouse still in operation; a World Heritage Site since 2009.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Torre de Hércules
The Torre de Hércules stands on a hill at the northern tip of the A Coruña peninsula, facing the Atlantic. It was built by the Romans between the late 1st century and the early 2nd century, and it is the only Roman lighthouse still in use—the oldest lighthouse in the world still operating. Until the 20th century it was called the Farol de Brigantium.
The tower is 55 meters high and sits more than 100 meters above the sea. The Roman stone core was clad at the end of the 18th century in a neoclassical refurbishment, which gave it its current appearance. Inside, the Roman walls are still visible. There are 239 steps to the upper viewpoint, from which you can see the city, the coast and the ocean.
The name comes from a legend: Hercules is said to have defeated the giant Geryon there and buried his head, upon which he ordered the tower to be raised. The legend appears on the city’s coat of arms.
Around the tower is a large seaside park with sculptures, such as the Rosa dos Ventos and the Menires pela Paz, and paths across the rocks. The tower has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 27 June 2009.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 to 1.5 hours, including the climb and the surrounding park.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon on low-wind days, for the climb and the view. Check opening hours before you go.
How to get there
It is at the northern tip of the peninsula, about 2.5 km from the center, served by city buses. On foot via the seaside promenade it’s about a 40-minute walk from plaza de María Pita.
Tip
At the base of the tower look for the exposed Roman walls: they are the original core of the lighthouse, hidden by the 18th-century refurbishment.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Torre de Hércules
How many steps does the Torre de Hércules have?
239 steps to the top viewpoint.
What period does the Torre de Hércules date from?
From the late 1st century and early 2nd century, with a Neoclassical renovation at the end of the 18th century.
Is the Torre de Hércules a World Heritage Site?
Yes, since 27 June 2009.
Why is it called Torre de Hércules?
Because of a legend that says Hercules defeated the giant Geryon there and ordered the tower to be built over his head.