Name and Location

The Giordan Lighthouse, also known as the Gurden Lighthouse, stands proudly on the western coast of Gozo, Malta. Its exact location is marked by the address Triq il-Lanterna, 36C9+V9R, Għasri, Gozo, Malta, with coordinates 36° 4′ 20.0″ N, 14° 13′ 6.3″ E.

Construction and History

The Giordan Lighthouse was constructed during the 19th century British period, although the exact year of its establishment is not documented in available records. It stands as a testament to Malta's rich maritime heritage and plays a vital role in guiding vessels through the Gozo Channel and western Malta straits.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is a white tower beacon constructed using locally quarried limestone, typical of Maltese lighthouses. Its height is 21.9 meters above base, with an unadorned, minimalistic design reflecting Victorian-era functional style. The exterior finish is painted white, giving it a striking presence against the rugged coastal cliffs.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse emits a single white flash every 7.5 seconds (Fl W 7.5 s), with a range of 20 nautical miles. Its focal plane height is 180 meters above sea level, making it an important aid to navigation for vessels in the area. The light is automated and managed by Transport Malta – Maritime Directorate.

Accessibility and Visiting

The lighthouse can be accessed via an unpaved footpath from Triq il-Lanterna, with parking available nearby on a country lane. While the tower and lantern room are not open freely to visitors, the surrounding area offers expansive views of the rugged coastal cliffs, the Kempinski Resort in the distance, and occasional ferries passing below.

Notable Views and Landscape

Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Mgarr Harbour to the north and the open channel to Sicily to the west. The site also affords stunning views of Gozo's rugged coastal cliffs and nearby attractions such as Għasri Valley, Wied il-Marsax, Dwejra Bay (Blue Hole, Fungus Rock).

Anecdotes and Folklore

While traditional lighthouse-keeping ceased with automation, there are no specific keeper memoirs publicly recorded. The lighthouse has played a vital role in warning vessels of Gozo's rugged cliffs and shoals, but it is not associated with any major maritime incidents.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse is an active aid to navigation, with its light characteristic being Fl W 7.5 s. It is automated and managed by Transport Malta – Maritime Directorate. There are no public AIS or radar installations reported on site.

Further Information

For further information, please visit the Wikipedia page en:Giordan_Lighthouse, Wikimedia Commons: Category:Giordan Lighthouse, US NGA Pub. 113 (2024-05-18), "List of Lights, Radio Aids and Fog Signals: Mediterranean", or OpenStreetMap: https://www.openstreetmap.org/way/136507953