A Coruña, Spain
A Coruña is a city in Galicia a northen and the most western region of Spain, just above Portugal. It is a city deeply connected to the Atlantic Ocean, which surrounds it from all sides.
One of the most iconic landmarks of the city is the Torre de Hércules, which is the oldest active lighthouse in the world. It was founded by the Romans, under the name Farum Brigantium. Since 2009, it is considered world heritage by UNESCO.
It is also advisable to walk, run or cycle along the promenade, which is the longest one in Europe (over 15 kilometers). It starts in O Portiño, from where you can see the San Pedro Islands, and it continues along the coastline until it reaches the Torre de Hércules.
Another emblematic place in A Coruña is Praza de María Pita, a square in the heart of the Old Town. It's dedicated to María Pita, who became city's heroine after defending it from an attack led by Francis Drake in 1589. It's said she killed the English flag bearer and shouted "Quen teña honra que me siga!", encouraging the citizens to stand up and fight against the invasion.
With a population of almost 250.000, A Coruña is a small and very walkable city, specially due to its density in downtown, caused by the fact that most of the city is completely enclosed by sea, forming a peninsula. You can expect mild weather during the summer, with temperatures around 25ºC, but don't be fooled and always keep a jacket on hand, who knows if the wind will pick up or if it will rain!
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