How to drive to Faro de Finisterre, the westernmost lighthouse in Europe?
Faro de Finisterre is a lighthouse located in the Province of A Coruña, on the northwestern coast of the Galicia autonomous community of Spain.
Where is Finisterre lighthouse?
The lighthouse, also known as Faro de Fisterra, is located on Cape Finisterre, on the Atlantic coast of Galicia, in the northwest part of the country. It's also part of the "Costa da Morte" (Coast of Death), named for the many shipwrecks that occurred due to its dangerous, rocky shores and frequent storms.
Why is it said to be the End of the World?
Located at one of the westernmost points of the Iberian Peninsula, it’s often called the westernmost lighthouse in Europe. In Roman times, it was believed to be the “end of the known world.” The name Finisterre comes from the Latin Finis Terrae, meaning “end of the Earth.” This wild and treacherous cape has been known as the ‘End of the World’ since medieval times, long before return voyages from the Americas were even imagined.
Why is Finisterre lighthouse important?
- It is one of the westernmost points of mainland Spain, and its dramatic cliffs mark a natural boundary between land and the vast ocean.
- The renowned lighthouse is considered one of the most powerful in Europe.
When was Finisterre lighthouse built?
The legendary Lighthouse of Finisterre was built in 1853 at the tip of Cape Finisterre, a crucial point for maritime navigation. It stands as a reminder of many naval battles that took place nearby, particularly between the French and English. The lighthouse is an octagonal stone tower measuring 17 meters in height. Its light, positioned 138 meters above sea level, can be seen from more than 30 nautical miles away. Originally, it operated with oil lamps, which were later replaced by filament lamps that emit a flash every 5 seconds.
How to drive to Finisterre lighthouse?
The road to the lighthouse is entirely paved and in very good condition. It’s called AC-445. Starting from Fisterra, the drive is 2.8 km (1.73 miles) long. The road ends in a parking lot, from where you need to walk around 300 meters to reach the lighthouse. Near the lighthouse, there’s a bar and a hotel.