The 12 stones represent the months of the year, symbolizing a cycle of time and memory.
The sculptor, Manolo Paz, is a prominent Galician artist known for his focus on stone and environmental integration.
The site, Campo da Rata, holds historical trauma as a place where many Republicans were executed following the 1936 military coup.
The holes carved into the stones are positioned specifically to frame the sunset and the horizon line over the ocean.
The granite monoliths remain exposed to the harsh Atlantic salt spray and wind, leading to natural weathering over time.
Menhirs for Peace is a contemporary art installation consisting of 12 granite monoliths arranged in a circle on the coast of A Coruña. Created by sculptor Manolo Paz, the installation was inaugurated in 2003 as a memorial to victims of civil conflict. Each megalith features an opening or 'window' carved into the stone, framing views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Tower of Hercules. The granite used is native to Galicia, weighing several tons per piece. The work is integrated into the coastal landscape of the Campo da Rata area. Its placement aligns with the historical significance of the site, which served as an execution ground during the Spanish Civil War. The site is part of the public coastal park system known as the Paseo Marítimo.
Stand on the side of the monolith where the carved 'window' perfectly frames the silhouette of the Tower of Hercules in the distance.
Bring a windbreaker as the coastal location is subject to strong, persistent Atlantic winds.
Combine this visit with a walk along the coastal trail toward the nearby Tower of Hercules.
Visit during low tide if you intend to explore the rock formations below the cliffside.
Do not attempt to climb or sit on the monoliths, as they are large-scale art installations and can be unstable due to coastal erosion.
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