Dating back to the 1st century CE, the Tower of Hercules has continually performed its maritime duty. Near the northwest coast of Spain, this imposing structure guides sailors. It’s perched on a mounded rocky hill that is located approximately 2.4 kilometers from the midsection of A Coruña (La Coruña), Galicia. Tourists are lured to its rugged coastline and park like setting.
Athletically minded individuals are usually willing to pay the admission price. You’ll need stamina to walk to the top. Be aware—there’s no elevator and minimal air circulation. Most visitors only take outside photos of this well-preserved example of Roman architecture.
A limited number of people can simultaneously climb the narrow steps. If you’re capable of walking up the 59-meter tower, the experience and the spectacular view are worth the effort and possible wait.
Today’s structure is configured differently than the original one. Renovators through the centuries have maintained most of its integrity. During the 10th century, the tower was used for surveillance and defense during the Norman and Muslim invasions. The structure also highlights examples of Roman engineering and navigational skills.
Inside Features
The basement has been preserved as an archeological site. The winding narrow staircase is open in the middle. One can stop at any of the three floors that contain four rooms. All of the rooms have barrel-vaulted ceilings and showcase features of Roman construction. The lantern room was added in the beginning of the 19th century
Outside Features
The rocky peninsula is continually subjected to crashing waves. A public park, Parque de la Torre surrounds the tower and to the north is another green space called Parque de Punta Hermida. There is also a nearby golf course Campo Municipal de Golf Torre de Hercules.
If you’re in A Coruña and walking along the Ensenada del Orzan, walk a bit further. The Tower of Hercules is something that you should see.
Before You Go
Mark the location on a map. Decide whether you have time for a leisurely stroll along the coast or prefer a taxi ride.
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THE ABOVE ARTICLE WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON NOVEMBER 19, 2015. IT IS BEING REPOSTED ON THIS SITE BECAUSE THE EXAMINER SITE SHUT DOWN EARLIER THIS MONTH.
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BIO
Sandra Bornstein is the author of MAY THIS BE THE BEST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE. It is available on Amazon.
Sandra’s memoir highlights her living and teaching adventure in Bangalore, India. She is a licensed Colorado teacher who has taught K-12 students in the United States and abroad as well as college level courses. Sandra is married and has four adult sons.
The memoir was a finalist in the Travel category for the 2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the 2013 International Book Awards, the 2013 National Indie Book Excellence Awards, 2013 USA Best Book Awards, and a Honorable Mention award in the Multicultural Non-Fiction category for the 2013 Global ebook Awards.
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