Destinations / Top wonders of the world you did not know about / Tower of Hercules
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Tower of Hercules
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Tower of Hercules is an ancient Roman lighthouse located on a peninsula, just 1.5 km from the city of La Coruna, Spain. Even the name of Corunna is said to derive from the old roman columns in the area. The lighthouse is over 1,900 years old. It was refurbished in 1791 and it is the world's oldest Roman lighthouse still in operation. Meanwhile, the Tower of Hercules lighthouse is the second largest in Spain. Legend says that this is the place where Hercules fought with giant Gerion. The battle between the two lasted three days and three nights, and the Greek hero won over the giant. He buried his head and huge arms, and on this place there was built a lighthouse.
But the reality is different. The lighthouse was built by the Romans in the first century and it still works now. It is located on a cliff and it is 55 meters high. In the 18th century it has been meticulously restored, preserving the whole Roman structure. Around the tower there is now a sculpture park, which exhibits, of course, a statue of the hero Hercules.
The building which managed to withstand 20 centuries was built under the order of Trajan Emperor. Now, the Tower is considered one of the greatest national monuments of Spain. The building was included on the UNESCO list of protected monuments and its status became acknowledged - the only Roman lighthouse still operational, to be used when sailing in the North Atlantic part.
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By Maria Morari
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The seven wonders of the world is a worldknown expression which is deep rooted in our minds, detering us from discovering other beautiful places on earth that may deserve the same fame.
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Our goal is to make you acquainted with top destinations you had no idea they existed before -places of unspoilt beauty.
Check that out!
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