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es Faro

2JMX+2J Cala Mastella, Spain

Name and Location

Construction and History

The construction of es Faro began in 1854 and was completed in 1859, making it one of the oldest lighthouses in Spain. Initially, it served as a manual aid to navigation, with keepers responsible for maintaining the light and fog signals. Over time, the lighthouse underwent modernization, transitioning from a traditional lantern to an automated system.

Architecture and Materials

The architecture style of es Faro is characteristic of 19th-century lighthouses, with a cylindrical tower constructed from limestone and topped with a domed roof. The structure stands at an impressive height of 86 meters (282 feet) above sea level.

Light and Navigation

The original light source was a kerosene lamp, which was later replaced by electricity in the early 20th century. Today, es Faro emits a white light with a range of 17 nautical miles (31 kilometers), serving as a guiding beacon for mariners navigating the Mediterranean Sea.

Accessibility and Visiting

While the lighthouse is no longer an active aid to navigation, it has been repurposed as a museum and tourist attraction. Visitors can access the site via a walking path that winds its way around the base of the tower. Inside, one can explore the historic keepers' quarters, learn about the importance of lighthouses in maritime history, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

Notable Views and Landscape

es Faro is situated on a picturesque cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, with stunning vistas of the island's northern coast. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Further Information

The managing authority of es Faro is the Spanish Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure, and Communications, which ensures the site's preservation and maintenance for future generations.

Details

Namees Faro
City
CountryOther
Coordinates39.0325788, 1.6490877