| The Romans reached Galicia in the 2nd century bc. above all for economic interests, given the mineral wealth in the area, and the military interest of colonisation and soldier recruitment. In this way in 62 bc. Julio Ceasar in person came to Brigantium (today’s La Coruña), in search of the metal route, through which trade was established with France, England, Portugal, etc.
At this time, the town, which was made up of a small number of fishermen, lived in a highly primitive state. However, the advantages of its location would be used by its colonisers, so in a short time it would become a city of certain importance in sea trade, as shown by the construction of the lighthouse, which occurred in the first or second century AD.
The Romans had an important influence and affected the way of life of the inhabitants: language, religion, culture, etc., given the time of the settlement.
In the centuries that followed the Roman occupation we know little of La Coruña: these were dark times without any written details. We imagine it suffered invasions from the northern peoples, who came into Spain in the 5th century, so the city was affected by the same destruction as many other cities.
The arrival of the Arabs in the 8th century was very brief and temporary due to the resistance of the Galician people. One important event was the landing of the fearful Normans at the Brigantium lighthouse in the 9th century (846).
What you must not miss:
• Tower of Hercules
• Modernist La Coruña
• Arte Sacro Museum
• Casa Consistorial and Plaza de María Pita
• Domus, Casa del Hombre
• Finisterrae aquarium
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