Hercules Towers

In the industrial area of Las Marismas de Palmones on the plateau above the Gibraltar harbor lies a pair of towers rising more than one hundred meters from the water's surface of a circular pool. The design by Madrid architect Rafael de La-Hoz is meant to evoke the original ancient name of the Pillars of Hercules (Columnae Herculis), representing the massive mountains on both shores guiding the arrival of ships into the Strait of Gibraltar. Additionally, the inscription “Non Plus Ultra” (Latin for “nothing beyond”) is encoded into the building's facade, warning ancient sailors that beyond the strait lies the end of the Mediterranean Sea and the borders of the known world.

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The pair of towers “Torres de Hércules” is located in the port of Algeciras, rising to a height of 126 meters and creating a new, unmistakable landmark over the Strait of Gibraltar. The striking vertical presence has transformed the landscape of the entire surrounding area. The towers are situated amidst new developments in the bay of Algeciras. Two identical twenty-story towers are surrounded by an artificial lake and are interconnected by a glass corridor.
The appearance of the building is defined by a giant grid structure enveloping the entire perimeter. The facade is filled with large-scale letters of the inscription “Non Plus Ultra.” Their purpose is to protect the interior of the building from excessive sunlight while guaranteeing panoramic views of the bay of Algeciras, the rock formation of Gibraltar, and the Serrania mountains. The sculptural shell extends over the administrative building, shades the rooftop terrace, and simultaneously serves to install energy collection and telecommunications systems.
The project, covering a total area of 19,000 square meters, was financed by the Cordoba-based company Valcruz. The majority of the space will be used as offices, but some floors will serve commercial purposes and services such as: cafes, bank branches, travel agencies, courier services, and so on.
On the top floor, at a height of 80 meters, there will be an observation restaurant. Above the restaurant, there will be a panoramic roof boasting a unique view of Gibraltar, Mount Musa, and the Alcornacles Natural Park.
The building has a main pedestrian entrance with a driveway for cars, providing an unobstructed view of the towers. A ground parking lot for 200 cars is located at the back on the opposite side of the towers and is arranged in a landscaped park.
The entire complex has a strategic location that utilizes all the potential of the local region and is easily accessible. The aim of the project is to fully exploit all the opportunities offered by the bay of Algeciras and its easy accessibility from the main routes from Seville, Gibraltar, Costa del Sol, and proximity to the Jerez de la Frontera airport.