Name and Location

The Faro di Punta Marsala, located on the island of Favignana in the province of Trapani, Sicily, Italy, has been guiding mariners since 1861.

2. Construction and History

The Faro di Punta Marsala was constructed during the Risorgimento era (1815-1871) to serve as a vital aid to navigation for ships sailing through the Mediterranean Sea and around the coast of Sicily. The lighthouse has undergone several renovations and updates, including the installation of an automated light system in the late 20th century.

3. Architecture and Materials

The Faro di Punta Marsala stands tall at approximately 20 meters (66 feet) high with a focal height of around 47 meters (154 feet).

4. Light and Navigation

The lighthouse is characterized by its distinctive white color and a first-order Fresnel lens that produces a flash characteristic of Fl (3) W.15s. The light range stretches approximately 15 nautical miles (27.8 kilometers), providing mariners with crucial guidance through the surrounding waters.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

The Faro di Punta Marsala is situated at geographic coordinates 37.9067484° N, 12.3653778° E, which can be accessed via a scenic coastal road. Visitors are welcome to explore the lighthouse and its surroundings, taking in the breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape while exploring the lighthouse and its surroundings.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

While there may not be any specific local folklore surrounding the Faro di Punta Marsala, visitors have reported encountering friendly locals who share stories about the lighthouse's rich history and its importance to the region's maritime heritage.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse operates on automated systems, which ensure that the light remains operational 24/7. Additionally, AIS (Automatic Identification System) and radar installations are present at the site to facilitate enhanced navigation and monitoring of maritime traffic.

9. Further Information

For those interested in learning more about the Faro di Punta Marsala and its significance in the context of Mediterranean navigation, references can be found in various publications, including the US NGA Pub. 113 (2010-10-22).