Most Popular Monuments of Galicia
History is one of the main reasons travellers visit Galicia. Its cities and towns are steeped in magic and culture from past centuries. Celts and Romans left many monuments now preserved as great tourist attractions.
If you enjoy ancient architecture, here's a simplified list of the most popular monuments of Galicia chosen by travellers.
Cathedral of the Apostle James
Impossible to start without this one. The most visited attraction in Galicia, in Santiago de Compostela — at least 8 million people from around the world visit yearly. Visitors often combine it with the Way of Saint James, which ends at the Cathedral. A must.
Finisterre Lighthouse
Located where Romans believed the land ended, and where the Apostle James travelled to spread his message. The westernmost point of continental Europe — thousands of pilgrims arrive yearly and old rituals honour the Jacobean tradition.
Built in 1853 — among the most emblematic in Europe. Sweeping Atlantic views.
Tower of Hercules
In A Coruña — the oldest working lighthouse in the world. UNESCO recognises it as one of the continent's most outstanding maritime monuments.
Rebuilt by Romans in the 1st century; used as a fortification in the Middle Ages. The current facade is from an 18th-century neoclassical remodel. Over 2 million visitors a year.
Castro of Santa Tecla
In A Guarda, Pontevedra — Mount Tecla rises between the Atlantic and the Miño river with one of Galicia's most impressive landscapes. About a million people climb yearly for the panoramic view over A Guarda's harbour, the O Rosal valley and the A Valga mountains.
Also known as Santa Tegra in Galician, this archaeological site sits at about 341 m. Of the Castro culture, one of the most visited castros. Declared a National Historic Artistic Monument in 1931.
Monastery of Samos
Last but not least. A great architectural work mixing Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Church, gallery, cloisters, sacristy and more form one of Galicia's most outstanding works. Tourists and pilgrims visit every year to admire its beauty.
