Name and Location

The Farol de Santa Marta is a historic lighthouse located in Santa Marta, Namibe Province, Angola. Situated on the Atlantic coast, this beacon has played a crucial role in maritime navigation for over a century.

Construction and History

Built in 1899, the Farol de Santa Marta was constructed during the Portuguese colonial era in Angola. The lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 20 meters (65.6 feet), with a focal height of 18 meters (59 feet). Its original purpose was to guide ships safely into the nearby harbor and warn of potential dangers.

Architecture and Materials

The Farol de Santa Marta is a characteristic example of Portuguese colonial architecture, featuring a white tower with a distinctive red-and-white striped light room at the top. The building's design is simplicity itself, with a rectangular base and a tapering shaft topped by a lantern room.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse originally displayed a fixed white light, but its characteristics have undergone changes over the years. Today, it emits a Fl(3)W.15s pattern, indicating that it flashes three times every 15 seconds.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse, but please note that its current state may not be suitable for climbing or exploration due to safety concerns. The nearest town, Santa Marta, offers basic amenities and attractions, such as the nearby Namibe River estuary and the Atlantic coastline.

Notable Views and Landscape

Standing atop the lighthouse, one can behold the endless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, with the Namibe River estuary and surrounding coastal landscape stretching as far as the eye can see. The nearby province is known for its rich natural resources, including petroleum and natural gas deposits.

Technical and Operational Details

Although the Farol de Santa Marta is no longer an active aid to navigation, it remains an important cultural and historical landmark. Efforts have been made to restore and preserve this iconic structure for future generations.

Further Information

For those interested in learning more about the Farol de Santa Marta and its significance in Angolan history, please refer to [Wikipedia link] (available), local historical accounts and publications, and online resources and archives.