Name and Location

The Faro de Santa Ana is a historic lighthouse located in Castro Urdiales, Cantabria, Spain.

2. Construction and History

The Faro de Santa Ana was built during the reign of Queen Isabella II of Spain in 1850 to improve maritime safety and navigation along the Cantabrian coast. The lighthouse was designed by architect Fermín Sánchez de la Torre and constructed using local stone and brickwork.

3. Architecture and Materials

The Faro de Santa Ana's architecture is characterized by its simple yet elegant design, typical of lighthouses built during the mid-19th century. The structure is composed of a cylindrical tower with a conical roof, surrounded by a small stone building that housed the keepers' quarters and living spaces.

4. Light and Navigation

The Faro de Santa Ana's original light characteristic was a flashing green light with a period of 3 seconds, visible for up to 6 nautical miles. The lighthouse was originally operated manually by keepers until it was automated in the mid-20th century. Today, it remains an automated aid to navigation.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

The Faro de Santa Ana is open to visitors during daylight hours from April to October. Admission fees apply, and guided tours are available upon request. The museum offers on-site facilities, including a small gift shop and refreshment area.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Bay of Biscay, with the surrounding landscape featuring a mix of rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and rolling hills.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

The Faro de Santa Ana has been involved in several notable maritime incidents throughout its history, including the rescue of a sinking vessel in the 1920s. The lighthouse is also said to be haunted by the ghost of a former keeper who died on duty.

8. Technical and Operational Details

• * Height: 14 meters (46 feet)
• * Focal height: unknown
• * Light characteristic: Fl(3)W.15s (flashing green light with a period of 3 seconds)
• * Range: up to 6 nautical miles
• * Coordinates: 43°38'05" N, 3°12'34" W

9. Further Information

The Faro de Santa Ana has been recognized as a cultural heritage site by the Spanish Ministry of Culture and Sport. The lighthouse is managed by unknown. For further reading, please refer to unknown.