Name and Location

The Patras Lighthouse, also known as Φάρος της Πάτρας (White Lighthouse), is a modern harbor light located in western Greece, specifically at the entrance to the New Port of Patras. The lighthouse can be found at Trion Navarchon 1, New Port, Patra 262 22, Achaia, Western Greece.

Construction and History

The Patras Lighthouse was erected in 1999 as part of a major redevelopment of Patras's waterfront. It replaced earlier, smaller lights and integrated with the New Port's visitor-friendly quay and promenade. Although it has not been officially listed as a historic monument, it is regarded as a contemporary municipal landmark.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse features a modern functional design, characterized by a slender cylindrical tower made of reinforced concrete with steel lantern. The structure is painted white, with a dark gallery railing and lantern housing. The architect or designer responsible for the lighthouse's design is not publicly recorded.

Light and Navigation

Although exact details about the light characteristic and range are not publicly available, it is likely that the lighthouse emits an automated white light for port approach, with sector/red-white marking possible but unconfirmed. As a fully automated aid to navigation, the lighthouse integrates into port radar and AIS systems, coordinating vessel traffic in and out of Patras New Port.

Accessibility and Visiting

The breakwater and lighthouse base are open to the public via the coastal promenade (Trion Navarchon). Visitors can access the area by walking 15 minutes west from Patras railway station or central bus terminal. Car parking is available near the port entrance. There is no internal access to the lantern.

Notable Views and Landscape

The best viewing times for the lighthouse are during sunset and early evening, when the light becomes visible against the dusk sky. The surrounding area features a promenade with cafés, fish taverns, and recreational piers.

Anecdotes and Folklore

• Locally, the lighthouse is known as Λευκός Φάρος (White Lighthouse). It has become a popular subject for amateur and professional photographers at sunset. There are no traditional legends surrounding the lighthouse; instead, it is regarded primarily as a modern civic project.

Technical and Operational Details

The Patras Lighthouse is managed by the Port Authority of Patras (Δημοτικός Οργανισμός Λιμένος Πατρών). It is an active aid to navigation, fully automated and integrated into port radar and AIS systems. The managing authority is responsible for vessel traffic coordination.

Further Information

For more information on the Patras Lighthouse, visit the Port Authority of Patras website (http://www.olp.gr) or consult Wikidata (Q1304210), Wikimedia Commons (Category Patras lighthouse), or Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patras_Lighthouse).