Menhirs for Peace

On the rocky coast where the land meets the boundless ocean lies one of the most impressive installations that modern Spain has to offer. Menhires for Peace (Menhires por la Paz) is a unique sculpture park created by the Galician master Manolo Paz in 1994.

Menhirs for Peace. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Located in the picturesque city of A Coruña, this ensemble of twelve massive granite monoliths harkens back to the distant past of the Iberian Peninsula. Inspired by Neolithic megaliths of the Bronze Age, these stones symbolize harmony, family, and historical memory, blending ancient traditions with contemporary art.

The composition on the Campo da Rata hill has become a true symbol of peace. Every element here is designed to emphasize the majesty of nature and remind us of the importance of preserving cultural heritage. This site attracts those seeking tranquility and inspiration amidst the rugged beauty of the north.

When planning your visit, keep in mind that the site is located in an open area and does not have its own administrative building or ticket office. All necessary tourist information can be found on the city's official portal.

A stroll through the park offers visitors not only aesthetic pleasure but also an opportunity for deep reflection. The main feature of the twelve menhirs is that a special "window" has been carved into each stone. Through these openings, carefully framed views of the ocean, the horizon, and the sky are revealed, creating a dynamic play of light and space.

You can spend hours observing how the perspective changes as you move around the sculptures. Visitors love using these stone frames to create unique photographs, where the rugged granite frames the crashing Atlantic waves. It is an ideal spot for meditation accompanied by the sound of the surf and the cries of seagulls.

In addition to the main group of menhirs, look for the additional megalithic composition by Isaac Díaz Pardo. It complements the ensemble, further enhancing the feeling of being in an ancient sanctuary reimagined in a modern way. A walk across Campo da Rata allows you to feel a sense of unity with both nature and history.

Reaching this secluded spot in the northeast of the city is quite easy. If you enjoy walking, the journey from the famous Tower of Hercules takes only about 20–30 minutes along the scenic coastline. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic views before exploring the monuments themselves.

For those who prefer public transport, city bus lines run to the area and stop within walking distance of the park. You can also take a taxi from the city center, which is the fastest and most comfortable option.

Travelers arriving by car should head toward Paseo dos Menhires. There is open-air parking available near the site, where you can leave your vehicle and continue to the menhirs on foot. Exact coordinates for your GPS: 43.3854096, -8.3938222.

Although these stone giants look as if they have stood here for millennia, the Menhires for Peace (Menhires por la Paz) is a modern interpretation of ancient megalithic traditions. The sculptural group was created by the artist Manolo Paz in 1994 (with final elements installed in 2003) as a tribute to the region's Neolithic heritage.

The site for the monument, Campo da Rata, was not chosen by chance. This open space overlooking the ocean has been considered significant since ancient times, and the modern sculptures, arranged in a circle, symbolize the cardinal directions and the infinite cycle of life. The composition is intended to serve as a reminder of the connection between generations and the importance of peaceful coexistence.

The complex gains additional artistic depth from its proximity to a granite monument inscribed with lines from great poets such as Federico García Lorca and Uxío Carré Alvarellos. This transforms a walk among the stones into a philosophical journey where the art of the word meets the monumentality of stone.

To truly feel the magical atmosphere of this place, take a leisurely stroll between the monoliths, and capture beautiful photos against the backdrop of the ocean, you will need about 30–60 minutes. This is ample time for a thoughtful exploration and contemplation of the landscape.

If you plan to have a small picnic or simply want to spend more time watching how the light changes on the rocks depending on the sun's position, you should set aside a bit more time. A visit here is often combined with a walk along the entire coastal zone, which can take half a day.

One of the best things about this attraction is that it is open 24 hours a day. The menhirs are located in a public area, allowing visitors to come whenever they like, whether at dawn or late in the evening.

Because the park is open daily and around the clock, you can witness the play of shadows on the stones at different times of the day. The sculptures look especially atmospheric at sunset, when the sinking sun peeks through the slits in the granite, bathing everything in golden tones.

The site's coastal location makes it easy to combine your visit with other iconic city landmarks. A walk along the shoreline will reveal many interesting spots—from ancient lighthouses to modern science museums.

Exploring the surroundings will help you gain a deeper understanding of the region's history and culture, turning a simple walk into a full-fledged adventure. Below are the nearest attractions reachable on foot or by a short drive: