Aquarium Finisterrae (Aquarium of the end of the World), La Coruna (must see)

The Aquarium of the End of the World, is a captivating marine biology and oceanography center located on the picturesque coast of La Coruna. Founded by the City of La Coruna and inaugurated on June 5, 1999, the aquarium is dedicated to the study and preservation of marine ecosystems, with a strong focus on the Atlantic Ocean. Its name, meaning "end of the world," reflects its stunning location along the Maritime Pass, nestled between the Domus Museum and the iconic Tower of Hercules. Directed by Ramón Núñez Centella with Francisco Franco del Amo as its technical director, the facility is a leader in interactive marine education and wildlife conservation.

The Aquarium is divided into several distinct areas, each offering a unique glimpse into the wonders of marine life. The Sala Maremágnum is the main interactive exhibition room, showcasing over 600 species from the Atlantic Ocean and offering visitors an immersive experience of the region's diverse marine environments. Another highlight is the Sala Nautilus, designed in the style of Captain Nemo's study from Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. This impressive underwater observation room encircles a 4.4 million-liter pool, one of the largest in Europe, where visitors can watch sharks and other Atlantic fish swim just beyond the glass. The Sala Humboldt focuses on marine ecosystems, while the Octopus' Garden celebrates one of the ocean's most enigmatic creatures.

The aquarium also features the Piscinarium, an open-air pool directly connected to the Atlantic Ocean, where a colony of playful seals delights visitors with their antics. The Stroking Pool allows guests to touch various forms of marine life, providing a hands-on learning experience that is particularly popular with children. Additionally, the Botanical Garden displays plant species typical of the Galician coast, and the Sala Isabel Castelo hosts a permanent exhibition of stunning nature photography.