Guide to A Coruña – Galicia, Basque Country (Pais Vasco), Spain

The history of the city began to be important in Roman times when the port of A Coruna became a key strategic point on sailing routes.

Visitors can experience a more modern side to the city of A Coruna; the typical houses located in the area beside the port, with their white glazed galleries, have earned the name the ‘Glass City’.

Further along the A Coruna promenade, there are other outstanding opportunities such as The Aquarium Finisterrae, one of the largest aquariums in Spain, and allow visitors to interact with exhibitions related to the sea. The Domus, located in one of the cities more famous and futuristic buildings, offers various interactive rooms that show mankind from an alternative point of view.

The Science Museum, which contains a stupendous Planetarium, also offers visitors an exhibition of scientific, technological and natural principles in an interactive way.

Visitors should also not forget to visit the modern City Hall, an elegant, monumental building built with porches and galleries and finished by three towers with attractive cupolas.

A Coruna contains many historical artefacts that have been declared of national importance. The most famous being the Tower of Hercules (Left), the only working Roman lighthouse and an important symbol of the city. Legend has it that, Hercules cut off the head of Gerion and built this monument after burying his remains below. This masterpiece which has stood the test of time stands in an interesting Romanesque collection of streets, squares and medieval churches.

Santiago de Compostela or Santiago city is the capital of this region and has been declared a World Heritage City. The supposed tomb of the apostle St. James the Greater was reputedly discovered here by a miracle. The city grew around the shrine and became, after Jerusalem and Rome, the most famous Christian place of pilgrimage in the Middle Ages. It still thrives today as a pilgrimage and tourist centre.

Places to see in A Coruna

Cathedral of Santiago

Represents the end of the pilgrim’s journey and was constructed by Maestro Mateo and houses hundreds of figures representing the Apocalypse.

Colegiata de Santa Maria del Campo

Once the second most important parish church in the area and today houses The Sacred Art Museum.

Ferrol the capital of Santiago de Compostela

Hosts the magnificent ‘Hostal de los Reyes Catolicos’ Parador which has been declared a National Monument and represents a truly unique experience for those lucky enough to stay there.