The San Pedro Viewpoint offers a spectacular view of A Coruña as it merges seamlessly with the Atlantic, which plays the absolute starring role in the city.
Located on the west side of A Coruña, Mount San Pedro stands high above Orzán Inlet, presenting a bird’s-eye view. In the sheltered cove, Orzán, Matadeiro and Riazor beaches offer a place to take a dip in the heart of the city. This unique spot boasts an extensive leisure area with a variety of attractions. These include the Cúpula Atlántica (a covered viewpoint with 360° views and interactive educational features), the Batería Interpretive Centre (which reminds us of the strategic importance of this location) and the panoramic lift, a very special way to avoid the climb between the promenade and the top of San Pedro.
From this vantage point, the metropolitan area does not conceal the many details on view: the Millenium Obelisk, a glass monolith commemorating the change of millennium and providing a visual reference for passers-by; Aquarium Finisterrae, known as the House of Fish, a museum and knowledge centre offering a comprehensive overview of the Galician coast; and the Tower of Hercules, a Roman lighthouse dating from the 1st century AD, the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009.
In the distance, you can see the Golfo Ártabro, a coastal arc made up of the rias of Ferrol, Ares–Betanzos and A Coruña, and referred to as Portus Magnus Artabrorum by the 1st-century BC geographer Strabo. Our gaze disappears into the sea mist surrounding the distant capes, Prioriño and Prior, although legend has it that it is possible to make out Ireland from this coast.