A Coruña

A Coruña stands on a promontory above the Atlantic, its harbor watched over by the ancient Roman lighthouse known as the Tower of Hercules. Refounded by Alfonso IX in 1208, the town grew through fishing and commerce and received the title of city in 1446. The royal court of the kingdom of Galicia later established itself here, adding administrative importance to the port.

In 1588 the Spanish Armada sailed from A Coruña toward the English Channel. The following year an English expedition under Francis Drake attacked the city, but the defenders held the upper town. Among them was María Pita, remembered for rallying resistance after a breach in the walls. The harbor remained a valuable naval and commercial base despite the burdens of war.