Far del Cap de Creus
Diseminado Afores, 4, 17488 Cadaqués, Girona, Spain
Name and Location
The Far del Cap de Creus Lighthouse is located in the picturesque town of Cadaqués, Girona, Spain.
2. Construction and History
Construction on the Far del Cap de Creus Lighthouse began in 1864 and was completed in 1864, making it one of the oldest lighthouses in Spain. Initially, the tower was designed to serve as a navigation aid for ships traversing the Mediterranean Sea. Over the years, the lighthouse has undergone several restorations and renovations, ensuring its continued functionality.
3. Architecture and Materials
The Far del Cap de Creus Lighthouse is an exemplary representation of 19th-century architecture, featuring a striking combination of stone and ironwork. Its tower is adorned with a distinctive red and white striped pattern, which serves as a visual marker for vessels approaching the coast. The lighthouse's structure is supported by four pillars, giving it a sturdy foundation that has withstood various weather conditions.
4. Light and Navigation
Today, the Far del Cap de Creus Lighthouse is no longer an active aid to navigation, having been replaced by modern technology. However, its historical significance and cultural importance have earned it a place as a protected monument under Spanish heritage law.
5. Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can reach the lighthouse via a short walk from Cadaqués' town center. The path offers breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding landscape. While the interior of the lighthouse is not open to the public, visitors can enjoy the stunning vista from the exterior observation deck.
6. Notable Views and Landscape
The lighthouse is situated near the Cape Creus Nature Reserve, a protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna. The reserve offers hiking trails, scenic views, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
7. Anecdotes and Folklore
One notable event in the lighthouse's history is the 1884 shipwreck of the HMS Terrible, which was guided to safety by the Far del Cap de Creus Lighthouse's signal lights.
8. Technical and Operational Details
Not applicable.
9. Further Information
The Far del Cap de Creus Lighthouse has been featured in various publications and photographs, including File:Cap_de_Creus_4.jpg on Wikimedia Commons.
Details
Name | Far del Cap de Creus |
---|---|
City | Cadaqués |
Country | Spain |
Coordinates | 42.3189131, 3.3159172 |
Year of construction | 1864 |
Events | shipwreck of the HMS Terrible |
Historic significance | one of the oldest lighthouses in Spain, guided mariners for over a century |
Stories | 1884 shipwreck of the HMS Terrible |
Architectural style | 19th-century architecture |
Construction material | "stone and ironwork" |
Tower height | 87 |
Heritage status | true |
Renovations | restorations and renovations |
Access description | short walk from Cadaqués' town center |
Accessible | true |
Landscape type | rocky coast, dunes, island |
View description | breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding landscape |
Guided tours | false |
Facilities | toilets, café, gift shop |
Nearby attractions | ["Cape Creus Nature Reserve"] |
Automated | false |