Name and Location

The Farol da Póvoa de Varzim lighthouse is located on the Portuguese coast at coordinates 41.3707343° N, 8.7712201° W.

Construction and History

The Farol da Póvoa de Varzim was built in 1874 to serve as a guiding light for ships navigating the treacherous coastline. The original structure was designed by Portuguese engineer João Maria Ferreira do Amaral and constructed using limestone and granite. Over the years, the lighthouse has undergone several renovations and restorations, including a major refurbishment in the 1990s.

Architecture and Materials

The Farol da Póvoa de Varzim is a towering structure with a characteristic red-and-white striped pattern. The lighthouse's focal height reaches an impressive 35 meters (114 feet), making it a prominent feature on the Portuguese coast.

Light and Navigation

The Farol da Póvoa de Varzim emits a light characteristic of Fl (3) W.15s, meaning it flashes every 15 seconds for 3 seconds, followed by a 12-second pause. This distinctive pattern serves as a beacon for ships navigating the area, providing critical guidance to ensure safe passage.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the Farol da Póvoa de Varzim through a public footpath that leads to the lighthouse's base. However, please note that the tower itself is not open to the public due to safety concerns.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse sits atop a rocky outcropping overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding landscape features a mix of sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and lush vegetation. The area is known for its natural beauty and rich biodiversity.

Anecdotes and Folklore

No anecdotes or folklore information available.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse has been fully automated since 1982, allowing it to operate efficiently with minimal human intervention. The light is powered by electricity, and its rotation is controlled by a solar-powered system.

For further information on the Farol da Póvoa de Varzim, please refer to the Instituto Hidrográfico da Marina (Portuguese Hydrographic Institute), the Portuguese Navy, or Wikipedia (Farol da Póvoa de Varzim).