Excursion Lugo and its roman history tour at La Coruna

Discover the Roman roots of this region of Spain on this fascinating tour of history that features a classic Spanish tapas lunch.

Drive for 90 minutes from La Coruna to visit the Castro de Viladonga. The archaeological and museum complex of Viladonga occupies the peak of a mountain, which also affords a spectacular view of the Terra Chá (Flat Land) of Lugo and the mountain chains of Monciro, Pradairo and Meira. The archaeological importance and the historical interest of the Castro de Viladonga were showcased after excavations initiated in 1971, due to the monumentality and the diversity of structures discovered and to the quantity and quality of the findings. The site is a remarkable example of settlement, especially between the 2nd and 5th centuries AD of the castros (fortified castles) created as part of the Roman conquest.

After a museum visit, proceed with a 30 min drive to Lugo, visit and walk of the Roman wall, outside Cathedral and old quarter. The Roman Walls of Lugo (UNESCO) are an exceptional architectural, archaeological and constructive legacy of Roman engineering, dating from the 3rd and 4th centuries AD.

The defenses of Lugo are the most complete and best-preserved example of Roman military architecture in the Western Roman Empire. Despite the renovation work carried out, the walls conserve their original layout and the construction features associated with their defensive purpose, with walls, battlements, towers and fortifications.

Next, take a walk in the Old Quarter. Notable landmarks include the Gothic Church of San Francisco, the cloister of which is a national monument, and the Romanesque cathedral (begun 1129) with Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical additions.

After a classic Spanish lunch of small plates (tapas), continue with a short drive to Bóveda de Mera, a small rural town near Lugo to discover one of the most enigmatic monuments of Galicia's cultural heritage: the underground monument of Santalla de Bóveda. Made public in 1926, this monument was discovered by the local parish priest, José María Penado, after studying the factory books of the present church and digging a hole under the atrium to find the old construction. After several excavations, restorations and studies, it was declared a National Monument in 1931 and an Asset of Cultural Interest in 1985.

At the end of your visit, depart for the 90-minjute drive back to La Coruna.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: The Roman Walls of Lugo (UNESCO), Castro de Viladonga, tapas lunch, panoramic views of Monciro, Pradairo and Meira mountain chains, Santalla de Bóveda monument

Note

Please note: This excursion involves over 90 minutes of walking and standing over sometimes uneven cobblestone or grass and some inclined terrain, making this tour not suitable for guests with walking difficulties. Suitable shoes for walking and comfortable sport clothing are recommended.