Elafonisi Lighthouse

The Elafonisi Lighthouse is located on the island of Elafonisi, off the southwestern coast of Crete, Greece.

History

• The Elafonisi Lighthouse has a long history dating back to 1904, when it was built to serve as a navigational aid for mariners in the area.
• During World War II, the Elafonisi Lighthouse played an important role in the Allied invasion of Crete.

Architecture

The Elafonisi Lighthouse is a tall, white tower with a distinctive shape. It stands at an impressive height of 43 meters (141 feet) above sea level, and its focal height reaches 54 meters (177 feet).

Light Characteristics

• The Elafonisi Lighthouse emits a powerful beam that can be seen for up to 12 nautical miles.
• The light is characterized by a distinctive "Fl" pattern, which indicates the presence of a lighthouse.

Current Status

The Elafonisi Lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its modernization in recent years.

Location and Accessibility

• The Elafonisi Lighthouse is located on the island of Elafonisi, which can be accessed by boat or on foot through shallow water.
• The lighthouse is situated near the monastery of Moni Chrysoskalitissa, a historic site that dates back to the 11th century.

Heritage Status

The Elafonisi Lighthouse has been designated as a protected monument in Greece, and it is considered an important part of the country's cultural heritage.

Notable Historical Events

• The Elafonisi Lighthouse was listed on the Greek Ministry of Culture's inventory of national monuments.

Location Information

* Address: Moni Chrysoskalitissa * Country: Greece * Town: Municipality of Kissamos

Note: The Elafonisi Lighthouse is located in a protected nature reserve, and visitors are required to follow all rules and regulations to protect the environment.