states: [spain]
category: cultural
year: 2009
region: Europe and North America
latitude/longitude: 43.3858333333, -8.4063888889
last visited: 2018
unesco id: 1312
world heritage site: 1312
The Tower of Hercules is an ancient Roman lighthouse and UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its historical and architectural significance. Built in the 1st century AD, it stands as the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world, originally constructed to guide ships along the Atlantic coast. Its robust stone structure, later renovated in the 18th century, blends Roman engineering with neoclassical design, symbolizing centuries of maritime heritage. Today, it serves as both a navigational aid and a cultural monument open to visitors.