Tower of hercules spain

The Tower of Hercules, in A Coruña, Galicia, is the oldest Roman lighthouse still in operation and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

About this subject

The Tower of Hercules is a lighthouse located on the peninsula of A Coruña in northwestern Spain. Built in the 2nd century AD, probably under Emperor Trajan, it is the only Roman lighthouse from antiquity that remains in continuous use today. Its original height was about 34 meters, but it was expanded in the 18th century to 55 meters with the addition of a neoclassical top. The original structure is made of stone masonry, with an internal staircase leading to the top. In 2009, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized as an exceptional example of Roman engineering and an ancient lighthouse.

The tower is steeped in local legends. One associates the name with the mythological Hercules, who supposedly defeated the giant Geryon on the site and erected the lighthouse over his head. Another legend, of Celtic origin, tells that King Breogán built a tower from which his sons sighted Ireland, leading to the colonization of the island. This narrative is so significant that Breogán's figure appears on the coat of arms of Galicia. The lighthouse is also a symbol of the city of A Coruña, featured on its shield and in various cultural manifestations.

Architecturally, the Tower of Hercules has a square plan with four internal levels that decrease in diameter as one ascends. The outer walls are inclined, providing structural stability. The original Roman base is still preserved and visible inside. Around the lighthouse, there is an archaeological park with Roman ruins and a museum explaining the site's history. The tower continues to serve as an active lighthouse, emitting lights that guide sailors in the Atlantic Ocean, with a range of up to 23 nautical miles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is the Tower of Hercules?

Currently, the Tower of Hercules is 55 meters tall, including the neoclassical top added in the 18th century. The original Roman structure measured about 34 meters.

Is the Tower of Hercules still functioning as a lighthouse?

Yes, the Tower of Hercules remains an active lighthouse, guiding ships in the Atlantic Ocean with a luminous range of up to 23 nautical miles.

Why is the Tower of Hercules a World Heritage site?

UNESCO recognized it in 2009 as the only Roman lighthouse from antiquity still in use, and as an exceptional example of Roman engineering and architecture, with historical and cultural significance.