Name and Location

The Faro da Estaca de Bares, also known as the Estaca de Bares Lighthouse, is located in the municipality of Mañón, A Coruña province, Spain.

Construction and History

The Faro da Estaca de Bares was built in 1883 to guide mariners through the treacherous waters off the coast of Galicia, Spain. The lighthouse stands at an impressive 101 meters (331 feet) tall and has a focal height of 93 meters (305 feet).

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is constructed from granite and features a distinctive white tower with a red stripe at the top.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse emits a light characteristic of Fl (3) W 15s, meaning it displays three flashes every 15 seconds. This unique pattern helps to distinguish the Faro da Estaca de Bares from other nearby lighthouses.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the Faro da Estaca de Bares through a small parking area and a short walkway leading to the tower. The lighthouse is open to the public during daylight hours, offering stunning views of the surrounding coastline. Guided tours are available upon request.

Notable Views and Landscape

From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, with the Ortegal Coast stretching out to the north and the Rías Altas to the south. On a clear day, it's possible to spot dolphins, whales, or seabirds in their natural habitats.

Anecdotes and Folklore

According to local legend, the Faro da Estaca de Bares was built to protect mariners from the wrath of a mischievous sea goddess who dwelled in the nearby waters. While this tale may be apocryphal, it adds to the rich cultural heritage surrounding this iconic lighthouse.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was automated in 1996, replacing manual operation with an electronic control system. This allowed for more efficient maintenance and reduced the risk of human error.

Further Information

The Faro da Estaca de Bares is recognized as a historic landmark in Spain and has been listed on the Register of Historic Places (Registro de Patrimonio Histórico) since 1983.