Fisterra takes its name from the Latin finis terrae ('end of the earth') and is the destination of the Camino de Fisterra, which ends at the Atlantic headland beyond the town. Its old centre rises above a working fishing harbour, where boats still land their catches for auction at the lonxa (fish market).
The Camino continues about 3 km beyond the town centre to the lighthouse at Cabo Fisterra, where the kilometre-zero marker marks the end of the route.
You can obtain a Fisterrana, the certificate recognising completion of the Camino from Santiago to Fisterra, at the Tourist Office (Praza da Constitución 31) or the municipal albergue.
What to see in Fisterra
Farol de Fisterra
Built in 1853, the lighthouse has an octagonal stone tower whose lantern stands 138 metres above sea level. Beside it is the fog siren known as A Vaca de Fisterra ('Fisterra's cow'), which began operating in 1889 to warn ships when fog obscured the light.
The kilometre-zero marker beside the lighthouse marks the end of the Camino de Fisterra.
Capela da Nosa Señora do Bo Suceso
This 18th-century Baroque chapel stands in Praza de Ara Solis, named after a legendary altar to the sun on the Fisterra headland. According to local tradition, the Phoenicians built the altar, the Romans later discovered it, and St James ordered its destruction. Above the chapel entrance, a broken pediment frames the founder's coat of arms.
Where to stay in Fisterra
Albergue La Espiral
Albergue Oceanus
Albergue de Sonia
Albergue Finistellae
Albergue Por Fin
Albergue Arasolis
Albergue Cabo da Vila
Albergue Mar del Plata
Albergue Mar de Fora
Albergue Fin da Terra e do Camiño
Albergue Mar de Rostro
Albergue de peregrinos de Fisterra
Albergue O Encontro
