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Δεσποτικό Lighthouse

G676+8V Karpathos, Greece

Name and Location

The Δεσποτικό Lighthouse, also known as Despotiko Lighthouse, is located in the picturesque town of Karpathos, Greece. Its official name is Δεσποτικό (Despotiko), and it sits on a rocky outcrop with coordinates 35.51335° N, 27.2122° E.

Construction and History

Unfortunately, the exact construction date of the Δεσποτικό Lighthouse is unknown. It is believed to have been built during the 19th century as a minor light beacon to aid navigation in the Aegean Sea. The lighthouse's design and materials are characteristic of Greek architecture during this era.

Architecture and Materials

The Δεσποτικό Lighthouse features a classic Greek architectural style, with a white-washed tower made of stone and brick. Its height is approximately 10 meters (32.8 feet), with a focal height of around 30 meters (98.4 feet) above sea level.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse emits a white light characteristic of Fl(3)W.15s, indicating that it shows three flashes of white light every 15 seconds.

Accessibility and Visiting

Today, the Δεσποτικό Lighthouse is no longer an active aid to navigation, having been replaced by modern technology. Visitors can reach the lighthouse by boat or on foot via a steep path from the nearby town of Karpathos. While the lighthouse itself may not be open to the public, its scenic location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and sea.

Notable Views and Landscape

The Δεσποτικό Lighthouse is situated amidst stunning natural scenery, with rugged cliffs, rocky shores, and turquoise waters stretching as far as the eye can see. The area is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Technical and Operational Details

The Δεσποτικό Lighthouse was once automated but now remains manually operated. There is no public information available on guided tours or opening hours, as the lighthouse is not open to visitors.

Further Information

  • 1. United States National Geodetic Survey (US NGA) Publication 113 (2011-10-20)
  • 2. Various Greek maritime and cultural institutions

Details

NameΔεσποτικό Lighthouse
CityKarpathos
CountryGreece
Coordinates35.51335, 27.2122
Historic significanceRole in maritime history
Architectural styleClassic Greek
Construction materialStone and brick
Focal height30
Tower height10
Heritage statustrue
Access descriptionBy boat or on foot via a steep path from the nearby town of Karpathos
Accessibletrue
Landscape typeRocky coast
View descriptionStunning natural scenery, with rugged cliffs, rocky shores, and turquoise waters
Guided toursfalse
Light characteristicFl(3)W.15s
Automatedfalse