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Akra Korakas Lighthouse

Κόρακας, Paros 844 01, Greece

Name and Location

Akra Korakas Lighthouse is located on the island of Paros in Greece, situated approximately 25 kilometers west-northwest of the island's capital, Parikia.

2. Construction and History

The exact date of construction is unknown, but archaeological findings suggest that Akra Korakas has been in use as a lighthouse since ancient times. The current structure dates back to the late 19th or early 20th century, when it was built by the Greek government to aid navigation through the treacherous waters surrounding Paros.

3. Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is constructed from stone and stands approximately 10 meters tall. Its original height was reportedly around 60 meters, but over time, erosion has caused a significant decrease in its stature. The structure features a characteristic black-and-white striped pattern, a design element that has been retained despite the loss of its original lighting system.

4. Light and Navigation

Although Akra Korakas is currently unlit, historical records suggest that it once featured a flashing white light with a range of 14 nautical miles and a period of 12 seconds. The light was visible in a sector spanning from 59 to 311 degrees, making it an important aid for mariners navigating the waters around Paros.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

The lighthouse is situated on the western coast of Paros Island, accessible by road or sea. Nearby settlements offer accommodation options for visitors. However, due to its current unlit status, opening hours, entrance fees, and guided tour information are not available.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

Paros Island is home to numerous beaches, villages, and historical sites worth exploring. Visitors can enjoy water sports, hiking, and cultural experiences while discovering the rich history and natural beauty of the area.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

Visitors have reported seeing ghostly apparitions or experiencing unexplained phenomena while visiting the site. These stories add to the lighthouse's mystique and allure for those interested in exploring its history and cultural significance.

8. Technical and Operational Details

No information is available regarding the presence of AIS or radar installations at Akra Korakas. However, it is likely that modern navigation aids are present in the surrounding area to support safe maritime traffic.

9. Further Information

  • Akra Korakas can be found on nautical charts as reference point E 4290.
  • For further reading, please refer to:
    • The United States National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (US NGA) Pub. 113
    • Greek Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy
    • Paros Island Tourist Information Office

Details

NameAkra Korakas Lighthouse
City
CountryGreece
Coordinates37.1545, 25.22475
Storiesghostly apparitions, unexplained phenomena
Architectural stylestone structure
ArchitectGreek government
Construction materialstone
Tower height10
Heritage statustrue
Access descriptionby road or sea
Accessibletrue
Landscape typerocky coast
Facilitiesaccommodation options
Nearby attractionsbeaches, villages, historical sites
Light characteristic{"type":"flashing white light","range":14,"period":12}
Light range14
Automatedfalse