Logo

lighthouse-index

Farol da Selvagem Pequena

8C252XMC+PX

Name and Location

The Farol da Selvagem Pequena lighthouse is located in the municipality of Funchal, on the island of Madeira, Portugal. The official name of this lighthouse is Farol da Selvagem Pequena, with coordinates (-16.0276035, 30.0342658) and can be found on a map here.

Construction and History

The Farol da Selvagem Pequena was constructed in the 19th century, specifically between 1867 and 1873, during the reign of King Louis I of Portugal. This historic lighthouse has been guiding mariners since its construction.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is an exemplary example of a typical Madeiran lighthouse design, characterized by its simplicity and functionality. The structure is made of stone and has a height of approximately 15 meters (49 feet) with a focal height of around 20 meters (66 feet).

Light and Navigation

The original light characteristic was a white flashing light with a range of approximately 10 nautical miles (18 kilometers). Although the lighthouse no longer functions as an aid to navigation, its historic significance remains.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse through guided tours, which can be arranged with local tour operators or authorities. The closest town is Funchal, which is connected to other parts of the island by bus and road networks.

Notable Views and Landscape

The surrounding landscape is characterized by rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and lush vegetation. For a visually stunning experience, explore the numerous photographs available online, showcasing the lighthouse's unique architecture and picturesque surroundings.

Heritage Status

The lighthouse has been recognized as a significant cultural and historical landmark in Portugal, making it an essential part of the country's heritage.

Technical and Operational Details

In the early 20th century, the Farol da Selvagem Pequena was automated, eliminating the need for manual operation by lighthouse keepers. Today, the lighthouse serves as a tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into Madeira's rich maritime history.

Further Information

Details

NameFarol da Selvagem Pequena
CityFunchal
CountryPortugal
Coordinates30.0342658, -16.0276035
Year of construction1867
Eventsshipwrecks, rescues
Historic significanceexemplary example of a typical Madeiran lighthouse design, characterized by its simplicity and functionality.
Storiesa glimpse into Madeira's rich maritime history
Architectural styletypical Madeiran lighthouse design
Construction materialstone
Focal height20
Tower height15
Heritage statustrue
Renovationsbetween 1867 and 1873
Access descriptionVisitors can access the lighthouse through guided tours, which can be arranged with local tour operators or authorities.
Accessibletrue
Landscape typerugged cliffs, rolling hills, and lush vegetation
View descriptionoverlooking the Atlantic Ocean, with rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and lush vegetation.
Guided tourstrue
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop
Opening hoursguided tours available
Nearby attractionsother parts of the island by bus and road networks
Light characteristicwhite flashing light
Light range10
Automatedtrue