Name and Location

El Faro de Comillas is a iconic lighthouse located in the charming town of Comillas, Cantabria, Spain.

Construction and History

El Faro de Comillas was built in 1884 to serve as a vital aid for navigation in the Bay of Biscay. The lighthouse has been guiding mariners and tourists alike since its construction.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is an example of Spanish architecture, specifically designed in the Art Nouveau style. It stands at 23 meters (75 feet) tall and is made of stone with a distinctive lantern room.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse's light characteristic is Fl (3) W.15s, with a range of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers). This means that the light flashes three times every 15 seconds, providing a reliable signal for vessels in the area.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the ground floor during opening hours (April to October: 10 am - 2 pm and 4 pm - 8 pm; November to March: 11 am - 1 pm and 3 pm - 6 pm). There is an entrance fee of €2 per person. Guided tours are available upon request, but on-site facilities are limited.

Notable Views and Landscape

From the lighthouse's vantage point, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Bay of Biscay and the surrounding Cantabrian coastline. The area is known for its rugged natural beauty, with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and sandy beaches.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse has been automated since 1994, freeing up former keepers to focus on other tasks. The coordinates of El Faro de Comillas are -4.2878607° longitude and 43.3930641° latitude.

Further Information

El Faro de Comillas is a protected monument and an important part of Spain's cultural heritage. The lighthouse is managed by the Spanish Ministry of Culture and Sports.