Polski
Lighthouses have served as a navigational point for ships since the dawn of time. They are not only signposts and safety signs, but also historic buildings, witnesses to many a maritime adventure and unique tourist sites. They adorn sea shores in various corners of the world, sometimes finding themselves in extremely remote places and lighting the way home for those returning from the sea. In this article, we stop 10 of the world’s most famous lighthouses, which for any travel lover should be an object worth visiting.
Portland Head Light Lighthouse (USA).
It was built in 1791, making it one of the oldest lighthouses in the US. It lies on the rocky coast of the town of Cape Elizabeth, Maine. It offers a breathtaking view of the Atlantic. It is one of the most famous lighthouses because of the building material it was made of. It was built using only rubble and bricks. Its height is more than 24 meters, and the emitted light can be seen at a distance of 44 kilometers. It is a symbol of the region’s perseverance and maritime history. The lighthouse tower is open to the public only on one day a year, Maine Lighthouse Open Day.
Chania Lighthouse (Greece)
Built in the late 16th century. by the Venetians, and reconstructed by the Egyptians between 1830 and 1840 is another of the oldest lighthouses in the world. It is a unique landmark in the old port of Chania. This Egyptian-Venetian lighthouse measures 26 meters and its light flashes red every 2.5 seconds. Unfortunately, the tower is closed and thus inaccessible to the public.
Les Éclaireurs lighthouse (Argentina)
Located on the Beagle Channel, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Ushuaia. Its red and white stone tower has resisted southern storms since 1920. Known as the “Lighthouse at the End of the World,” it is located on a small island. It is built of bricks and is 11 meters high. Still in operation, it is remote-controlled, automated, uninhabited and inaccessible to the public. He has been guarding the maritime entrance to Ushuaia for years.
Lindesnes Lighthouse (Norway)
It is the first lighthouse in Norway. Its light has been showing the way since 1656. It is located at the southernmost point of the country, on the rocky coast. It is an important landmark – indicating where the North Sea meets the Baltic Sea. It offers great views. To this day, two lighthouse keepers, the only ones in the country, still perform their work here. The Lindesnes Foundation Museum is located there.
Fanad Head Lighthouse (Ireland)
It has been in operation since 1817. A lighthouse located at the mouth of Lough Swilly. It has been recognized as one of the most beautiful of its kind in the world. Located on the picturesque Fanad peninsula in County Donegal, it guarantees a beautiful view of the Atlantic. It is a popular destination for tourists, offering not only beautiful scenery but also insights into Ireland’s rich maritime history. The height of the tower from the foundations to the top (not including the lantern) is 22 meters.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (USA)
The tallest lighthouse in the United States, Cape Hatteras, measures 60 meters high. It is known as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” due to the numerous shipwrecks in the area. Its distinctive spiral painting makes it easily recognizable. It often ranks high on lists of the most beautiful and famous lighthouses in the US.
Peggy’s Point Lighthouse (Canada)
One of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, Peggy’s Point was built on granite rocks. It is an icon of Canada’s Atlantic coast and attracts numerous tourists with its picturesque location and simple but charming architecture. It is an attraction of the fishing village of Peggy’s Cove on the south shore, where it was built in 1915.
Jeddah Lighthouse (Saudi Arabia)
It is the tallest lighthouse in the world and rises to a height of 133 meters. It is a modern architectural masterpiece that serves as an important landmark in the port of Jeddah. Its construction began in 1987 and it was put into operation in 1990.The lighthouse light, located above the observation point, broadcasts 3 flashes every 20 seconds. The range of the light is 46 kilometers.
Tower of Hercules (Spain)
It is the oldest operating lighthouse. It was built in the 1st century. AD. It is located on a peninsula about 2.4 kilometers from the center of A Coruña in northwestern Spain. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and not only provides stunning views from its summit, but is also a testament to the ancient history of navigation. It is 55 meters high and overlooks the North Atlantic coast of Spain. It is the country’s national monument. The tower was renovated in 1791.
Formentor Lighthouse (Spain)
It is located on the northern tip of Mallorca, Spain. Built in 1863. The lighthouse is 22 meters high and has a 44 km range. It is known for its incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a popular destination for tourists and photographers. The area in which it is located is part of the Sierra de Tramontana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A long and winding coastal road leads to it, surrounded by cliffs rising 300 meters high.
Lighthouses as guiding lights
Visiting the lighthouses of the world, you can admire not only their architectural uniqueness and beauty, but also learn some of the history of sailing. These structures have been resisting the force of the sea for centuries, but also serve as a signpost for sailors returning to port. Each of the lighthouses has its own unique history and character, making them special places worth visiting.
